How Big Does a Kiwi Vine Get?

Size

• Kiwi grows on woody, dense, twining vines called liana that look more like climbing shrubs. When provided optimal growth conditions, kiwi vines have a spread of 10 to 15 feet. The vine grows anywhere between 18 to 24 feet long. Kiwi vines have a fast growth rate, achieving a height of nearly 10 feet in a single growing season.

Description

• The kiwi vine has large circular foliage with a diameter of 7 to 10 inches. The dark green, leathery leaves are covered in red fuzz when young. Mature foliage is not fuzzy, but is lighter colored and downy on the undersides. The 1- to 2-inch-wide flowers are white and fragrant, growing in pairs or threes between May and June. The 2 ½ inch, oval fruit is green in color and assumes brown shades upon maturity. The stiff, fuzzy skin covers a sweet, green flesh scattered with tiny black, edible seeds.

Climate Requirement

• The vine is highly sensitive to late winter and early fall freezes and needs at least 240 frost-free days for healthy flowering and fruit set. Areas with a long growing season are best for growing kiwis. Though the vine has a tolerance for temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit in its fully dormant state, sudden drops in temperature causes bark splitting.

Growth Requirements

• Plant the vine in areas of full sun and a well-drained, fertile loam. The vine is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11. The hardy kiwi variety is adapted to zones 5 to 9. Plant during early spring and leave 15 to 20 feet between plants. A sturdy trellis is also required for support. Kiwis have a high water requirement, especially at blooming and fruiting time. Fertilize mature vines with 10 lbs. of 10-10-10 fertilizer distributed throughout the year.