Tara Vine (Actinidia arguta)

Family: Actinidiaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (5/5)

Actinidia arguta is a deciduous Climber growing to 15 m (49ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from May to November, in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Sap/Syrup

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweeter than A. — Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for later use.; deliciosa, the kiwi fruit, the skin is smooth and can be eaten with the fruit.; The fruit contains up to 5 times the vitamin C content of blackcurrants.; Highly esteemed according to one report whilst another says that they are insipid.

Habitat & North American Range

Climbing up trees in woodland, mountain forests, thickets, streamsides and moist places at elevations of 700 - 3600 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)