Actinidia deliciosa
Actinidia deliciosa (A.Chev.) C.F.Liang & A.R.Ferguson
Actinidia deliciosa produces fragrant, creamy-white cup-shaped flowers in late spring, sweetly scented and visited eagerly by bees. Often overlooked for its more famous fruit, the kiwi flower is a symbol of hidden sweetness, patience, and the promise of abundance to come.
Actinidiaceae (Kiwi family)
May to June (late spring to early summer)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: persimmon blossoms and balloon flowers also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The kiwifruit flower is one of horticulture's underappreciated beauties: fragrant, elegant, and rich with the promise of the extraordinary fruit that follows. The plant originated in China, where it was known as yang tao (gooseberry) and was eaten for centuries before being introduced to New Zealand in the early 20th century, where it was developed commercially and renamed kiwifruit. The genus name Actinidia comes from the Greek aktis, meaning "ray," referring to the radiating styles of the female flower. The species name deliciosa speaks directly to the pleasure of the fruit. The flower carries the symbolic weight of waiting: it blooms sweetly and briefly in spring, then gives way to months of patient ripening before delivering its remarkable reward.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun in a warm, sheltered south or west-facing position; young shoots are vulnerable to late frost damage
Water
Consistently moist; requires regular watering especially during active growth and fruit development; do not allow soil to dry out
Soil
Fertile, Humus-rich, Well-drained, Moist, Slightly acidic, pH 5.5–6.5
Expert Growing Tips
Plant one male and one female vine to ensure pollination and fruit set, or choose a self-fertile cultivar such as Jenny
Train as an espalier against a warm, sheltered wall for best fruiting results in cool-temperate climates
Prune in midsummer and again in late winter while dormant to control size and encourage fruiting spurs
Protect young spring shoots from late frosts with horticultural fleece
Flowers open creamy white and fade to a warm cream-yellow as they age; bees are essential pollinators for fruit set
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Pergola and arbor climber for shade and flower interest
- Espalier trained against a sunny wall
- Edible garden focal point combining flowers, foliage, and fruit
- Pollinator garden vine
- Large trellis or fence covering
Traditional Uses
- The fruit is exceptionally rich in vitamin C and contains actinidin, a proteolytic enzyme used in food preparation
- Traditional Chinese medicine used various parts of Actinidia species to address digestive complaints and as a general tonic
- Research has explored the antioxidant and immune-supporting properties of kiwi fruit consumption, though these are nutritional rather than medicinal claims
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Actinidia deliciosa
What does the Actinidia deliciosa flower symbolize?
The kiwifruit flower symbolizes hidden sweetness, patient anticipation, and the promise of abundance. Its brief, fragrant bloom in late spring carries the quiet suggestion of the extraordinary fruit that follows months of patient ripening.
Why do kiwi plants need both male and female plants?
Actinidia deliciosa is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are borne on separate plants. Male flowers produce pollen but no fruit; female flowers must be pollinated by male flowers to develop kiwifruit. One male plant can pollinate up to eight female plants. Self-fertile varieties like Jenny remove this requirement.
What does the kiwi flower look like?
Kiwi flowers are cup-shaped, fragrant, and creamy white, with five to six rounded petals surrounding a prominent central cluster of yellow stamens. They are borne in small clusters at the leaf axils and open in late spring, often partially hidden by the large, velvety leaves.
How long do kiwi flowers last?
Individual flowers last only a few days, but a vine in full bloom can continue producing flowers for 2 to 3 weeks in late spring. During this window, bee pollination is essential for fruit set, so avoid spraying pesticides while the vine is in flower.
When does Actinidia deliciosa flower?
It typically flowers in May and June in temperate climates, with the exact timing depending on local temperatures and the age of the vine. Young vines may take 3 to 5 years to flower for the first time.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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