Actinidia chinensis
Actinidia chinensis
Actinidia chinensis (pronunciation: ak-ti-NID-ee-uh chi-NEN-sis) is a species of woody vine in the family Actinidiaceae. The plant is native to much of eastern Asia, and is most commonly known for its fruit, the kiwifruit or Chinese gooseberry.
Etymology
The genus name Actinidia comes from the Greek 'aktis', meaning 'ray', in reference to the radiating form of the plant's stigma. The species name chinensis is Latin for 'from China', the country where the plant is believed to have originated.
Description
Actinidia chinensis is a vigorous, deciduous, climbing shrub that can grow up to 9 meters in height. It has simple, alternate, oval leaves that are 7-15 cm long and 3.5-5 cm broad. The plant produces fragrant, creamy-white or yellowish flowers in late spring, followed by a hairy, oblong fruit that is green when immature and brown when ripe. The fruit is known for its sweet and tangy taste and its high vitamin C content.
Cultivation and uses
Actinidia chinensis is widely cultivated for its fruit, the kiwifruit. The plant prefers a sunny, sheltered position and well-drained soil. It is typically propagated by seed, but can also be propagated by cuttings. The fruit is harvested when it is fully ripe and is eaten fresh or used in cooking.
Related terms
- Actinidiaceae: The family to which Actinidia chinensis belongs.
- Kiwifruit: The fruit of Actinidia chinensis.
- Chinese gooseberry: Another common name for the kiwifruit.
- Viticulture: The cultivation and harvesting of grapes, a practice similar to the cultivation of Actinidia chinensis.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Actinidia chinensis
- Wikipedia's article - Actinidia chinensis
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