Prolific Hardy Kiwi (self-fertile)

Actinidia arguta ‘Prolific’ is a cold-hardy kiwi vine that produces smooth-skinned, grape-sized kiwis you can eat whole—no peeling required. Often called hardy kiwi or kiwi berry, this vigorous vine is known for heavy yields once established.

Unlike other kiwi varieties, Prolific is a self-fertile female variety, meaning you do not have to plant a male hardy kiwi to get fruit. 

Plants start shipping in spring after danger of freezing and will come in robust 2" plugs. 

Why Grow ‘Prolific’ Hardy Kiwi?

Eat Off the Vine
Enjoy small, smooth fruits with classic kiwi flavor—but without the mouthful of fuzz. Unlike the larger fuzzy kiwis, hardy kiwi is perfect for fresh eating right off the vine.

Cold-Hardy Kiwi
Handles much colder winters than grocery-store fuzzy kiwis, making it suitable for many temperate climates.

Vigorous & Long-Lived
A perennial vine that can produce for decades once established. (Although be careful...it can spread pretty fast once established!)

Growing Information

🌱 Plant Type: Perennial fruiting vine
🌱 Hardiness Zones: 4–8
🌱 When to Plant: Spring after last frost
🌱 When to Harvest: Late summer to early fall

Cultivation Tips

• Soil requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade. Full sun promotes best fruiting, while light afternoon shade can help in hot climates.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during establishment and fruit development. Consistent moisture supports vine health and fruit size.
• Harvesting: Fruits are ready when they soften slightly and reach full size. Harvest before hard frost—fruit will continue to sweeten off the vine.
• Trellising: Plan for a strong trellis or arbor—these vines are vigorous and heavy when mature. You may also need to cut them back every year to prevent unwanted spread.

You can expect fruit in 3–5 years, with increasing yields over time. As long as you keep up with vine management, you'll be rewarded with sweet, tropical-tasting fruit every year.

Non-GMO Commitment: At The Farm on Central, all our plants are guaranteed non-GMO and not genetically modified in any way, upholding natural breeding methods and promoting sustainable gardening and farming practices.