Issai Hardy Kiwi

Actinidia arguta ‘Issai’

Issai Hardy Kiwi is a cold-hardy, self-fertile kiwi vine that produces smooth-skinned, grape-sized fruit with a sweet, tropical flavour. Unlike fuzzy grocery-store kiwis, these fruits are eaten whole—skin and all—making them easy and enjoyable to harvest straight from the vine.

Perfect for gardeners in colder climates, Issai is one of the most reliable hardy kiwi varieties, valued for its ability to produce fruit without needing a second pollinator. It also doubles as an attractive ornamental vine with lush green foliage and vigorous growth, ideal for trellises, pergolas, and fences.

Plant Details

• Hardiness Zone: 3–8

• Mature Size: 10–15 ft tall (with support)

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part sun

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Water Needs: Moderate; consistent moisture preferred

• Soil Preference: Well-drained, fertile soil

Why You’ll Love It

• Self-fertile — no pollinator required

• Produces sweet, bite-sized kiwi fruit

• Excellent cold hardiness for prairie gardens

• Vigorous vine for vertical interest

• Fruit ripens late summer to early fall

Care Tips

• Provide strong support such as a trellis or pergola.

• Plant in a sheltered location out of strong winds.

• Prune in late winter or early spring to control size and encourage fruiting.

• Mulch to protect roots and maintain even soil moisture.

• Expect light fruiting early, with heavier crops as the plant matures.

Photos from gardenia.net