Hardy Kiwi (Ken's Red)
Female
$22.99
Out of stock
Ken’s Red Hardy Kiwi is a striking and productive hardy kiwi variety known for its beautiful deep red fruit and exceptionally sweet flavor. Originally developed in New Zealand, this hybrid combines Actinidia arguta with Actinidia melanandra, resulting in kiwi berries that develop a distinctive burgundy-red color when fully ripe.
The fruit is similar in size to large grapes or gooseberries with smooth, edible skin that can be eaten whole without peeling. Ken’s Red is often considered one of the most flavorful hardy kiwi varieties, producing fruit that is very sweet with low acidity and rich berry-like notes.
This vigorous climbing vine produces abundant fruit once established and adds both ornamental interest and delicious harvests to backyard orchards and edible landscapes.
Key Characteristics
Fruit Quality:
Produces grape-sized kiwi berries with smooth edible skin. The fruit develops a deep burgundy or reddish-purple color when ripe, with sweet red flesh and a rich, mild flavor.
Harvest Timing:
Typically ripens in early to mid-fall, usually late September through October, depending on climate.
Yield:
Very productive once established. Vines typically begin fruiting in year 3–4, with mature plants capable of producing heavy annual harvests under good growing conditions.
Pollination:
This is a female variety and requires a compatible male hardy kiwi for fruit production.
Compatible male pollinators:
✔ Meader Male Hardy Kiwi
✔ Fairchild Male Hardy Kiwi
One male plant can typically pollinate 6–8 female vines.
Growing Requirements
Hardiness Zones:
Cold hardy in USDA Zones 4–8, tolerating winter temperatures down to approximately -25°F once established.
Growth Habit:
A vigorous deciduous climbing vine that can grow 20–30+ feet long. Requires a strong support structure such as a trellis, arbor, pergola, or fence.
Soil & Sun:
Performs best in full sun with well-drained soil. Hardy kiwis prefer fertile soil and consistent moisture but do not tolerate standing water.
Maintenance:
Due to its vigorous growth, annual pruning is recommended to control size, maintain plant structure, and encourage heavy fruit production.