Botanical profile

Actinidia arguta 'Issai'

Latin name
Actinidia arguta 'Issai'
Common name
Self-fertile hardy kiwi 'Issai'
Type
Fruit tree
Family
Actinidiaceae

Actinidia arguta 'Issai', or self-fertile 'Issai' hardy kiwi, is a compact and productive fruiting climbing plant, ideal for small spaces or gardeners looking for a self-pollinating variety. It offers fragrant spring blooms, followed by a production of small, smooth, sweet, and edible green kiwis that don't need peeling. Its twining habit allows it to effectively cover trellises, fences, or arbors, while remaining more contained than other varieties. Very hardy, reliable, and ornamental, 'Issai' combines beautiful foliage, edible appeal, and ease of cultivation, making it an excellent introduction to fruit gardening. Its vibrant green foliage forms a dense canopy that also adds freshness to the landscape. It excels equally well in pots and in the ground.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 5
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Regular watering
Fertilization
Spring berry fertilizer. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Add Myke when planting.
Soil type
Slightly acidic to neutral, well drained
Minimum temperature
'-34°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Late spring
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Small, smooth, sweet green kiwis with edible skin
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Climbing
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
2 to 3 m (6 to 10 feet)
Width
3 m (10 feet)
Growth rate
fast
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Fruit tree type
Kiwifruit
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.