Description
Broadmore Arctic Kiwi is an older USDA accession of Actinidia kolomikta valued for reliable production, earlier ripening, and unusually large fruit for the Arctic kiwi species. It’s an especially strong choice for cold-climate growers seeking dependable kiwi harvests in shorter-season regions.
Unlike standard hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta), Arctic kiwi is prized for exceptional winter hardiness and earlier fruit maturity. These traits allow varieties like Broadmore to perform in climates where larger kiwi berry species may struggle with winter damage or fail to consistently ripen fruit before fall weather arrives.
Broadmore is especially notable for producing relatively large fruit within the Arctic kiwi category while still maintaining the aromatic flavor and early ripening that define the species. The smooth-skinned fruit is edible whole and develops sweet, lightly floral kiwi flavor as it softens.
Compared to standard kiwi berry vines, Arctic kiwi is generally more restrained in growth and easier to manage on smaller trellises or garden structures. Broadmore combines this manageable habit with reliable productivity, making it one of the more fruit-focused Arctic kiwi selections available.
Overview
- Species: Arctic kiwi (Actinidia kolomikta)
- Fruit type: Small smooth-skinned kiwi fruit with edible skin
- Flavor: Sweet, aromatic, and lightly floral
- Fruit size: Larger than many Arctic kiwi selections
- Growth habit: More restrained and manageable than standard hardy kiwi
- Ripening window: Early season; often ripens in August or early fall depending on region
- Primary advantage: Reliable cold-climate kiwi production with earlier ripening
- Pollination: Female; requires a compatible male Arctic kiwi vine
Growing Details
Latin Name: Actinidia kolomikta ‘Broadmore’
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–8
Rootstock: Own-root (propagated from cuttings)
Bearing Age: Typically 3–4 years after planting once vines are established and properly trained
Size at Maturity: Climbing vine with more restrained growth than standard hardy kiwi; manageable with seasonal pruning
Bloom Time: Early season (varies by region)
Ripening Time: Early season; often ripens in August or early fall depending on region
Fruit Size: Relatively large for Arctic kiwi species
Pollination: Female; requires a compatible male Arctic kiwi (Actinidia kolomikta) vine planted within 20–30 feet for fruiting.
Pests & Diseases: Generally low disease pressure with good airflow and proper pruning
Yield: Moderate to strong production once established
Additional Notes
- Grower’s Insight: Broadmore helps bridge the gap between Arctic kiwi hardiness and the larger-fruit appeal growers often want from kiwi species.
- Regional Insight: Earlier maturity makes Broadmore especially attractive in northern climates and shorter-season growing regions.
- Species Note: Arctic kiwi fruit is typically smaller and more aromatic than standard kiwi berry species, but often ripens more reliably in cold climates.
- Explore more kiwi and Arctic kiwi vines in our collection: Kiwi & Hardy Kiwi Vines
