If you’ve ever wondered how big is a kiwi tree, you’re not alone! Kiwi plants are fascinating climbers that produce the delicious fuzzy fruit we all love. But unlike typical fruit trees, kiwis grow quite differently, and their size can surprise many gardeners. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the size, growth habits, and care of kiwi trees so you can plan your garden perfectly.
What Is a Kiwi Tree?
First, it’s important to clarify that the kiwi “tree” is actually more of a woody vine or climbing shrub, scientifically known as Actinidia deliciosa. This vine-like plant is deciduous, meaning it loses its leaves in the fall, and it climbs by twining around supports like trellises, fences, or pergolas. The kiwi fruit itself is oval-shaped, about the size of a large hen’s egg, with fuzzy brown skin and bright green, juicy flesh inside.
How Big Does a Kiwi Tree Grow?
Height and Length
Kiwi plants can be surprisingly large! Under optimal conditions, they can grow:
– Up to 15 to 30 feet tall (4.5 to 9 meters) when supported vertically on a trellis or pergola.
– In some cases, the vine length can reach up to 30 feet or even longer, especially if climbing into trees or tall structures.
Because kiwis are climbers, their “height” depends on what they climb on. If left unsupported, they may sprawl or trail along the ground, but with a sturdy structure, they can reach impressive heights.
Width and Spread
The spread of a mature kiwi vine generally ranges from:
– 6 to 10 feet wide (about 2 to 3 meters).
– Some varieties, like the popular ‘Hayward’ female kiwi, can spread about 4 meters (13 feet) wide.
This wide spread means you need to allocate enough space in your garden for the vine to expand comfortably.
Size Differences by Kiwi Variety
Not all kiwi plants grow the same size. Here’s a quick look at size variations among common types:
| Variety | Height/Length | Spread/Width | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hayward (Actinidia deliciosa) | 15-30 feet (4.5-9 m) | 6-10 feet (2-3 m) | Most common commercial variety; large fruits |
| Jenny (Self-fertile variety) | Up to 6 meters (20 ft) | About 4 meters (13 ft) | Hardy and self-fertile; good for smaller spaces |
| Hardy Kiwi (Dwarf type) | 3-6 feet (1-2 m) | Compact | Suitable for containers or small gardens |
The giant varieties like Hayward need ample space and strong support, while dwarf or hardy varieties are better for smaller gardens or container growing.
Growth Rate and Time to Full Size
Kiwi plants are known for their fast growth rate, especially in their early years. Under ideal conditions, a kiwi vine can grow:
– Up to 10 feet in a single growing season.
– Most kiwi plants take about 3 to 5 years to reach full maturity and start producing fruit.
Dwarf varieties may mature faster, sometimes within 2 to 3 years, while larger varieties may take longer.
What Influences the Size of a Kiwi Tree?
Several factors affect how big your kiwi plant will grow:
– Sunlight: Kiwis thrive in full sun or partial shade. They need at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit ripening.
– Soil: They prefer moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter.
– Water: Regular watering is essential, especially during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging.
– Support Structure: Since kiwis are climbers, a strong trellis or pergola is necessary to support their height and spread.
– Pruning: Annual pruning helps control the size, encourages healthy growth, and improves fruit production.
– Climate: Kiwis grow best in temperate climates (USDA zones 7-10). Extreme cold or heat can stunt growth or damage the plant.
How to Manage Kiwi Tree Size in Your Garden
If space is a concern, here are some tips to manage your kiwi’s size:
– Choose a dwarf or self-fertile variety like ‘Jenny’ or ‘Hardy Kiwi’ for smaller spaces.
– Regular pruning in early spring keeps the vine manageable and promotes fruiting.
– Train your kiwi vine on a trellis or espalier system to control vertical and horizontal growth.
– Mulch and water properly to maintain healthy growth without excessive vigor.
Fun Facts About Kiwi Plants
– Kiwi vines can sometimes grow so vigorously that they climb into nearby trees and reach lengths over 100 feet if unchecked.
– Male and female kiwi plants are needed for pollination, except for self-fertile varieties like ‘Jenny’.
– Kiwi plants are quite hardy and disease-resistant but do best with some protection from extreme cold.
Kiwi plants are both beautiful and productive, making them a fantastic addition to many gardens. Their size can be impressive, but with proper care and planning, you can enjoy fresh kiwi fruit right from your backyard.
Kiwi vines typically grow between 15 to 30 feet tall and spread 6 to 10 feet wide, depending on the variety and growing conditions. With the right support and care, they offer a rewarding fruit harvest and a striking garden feature.