How to Grow Matua Kiwifruit
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Matua Kiwifruit
Actinidia arguta
vineMatua is a hardy kiwifruit vine that produces small, smooth-skinned green fruits resembling elongated grapes. Unlike fuzzy kiwis, these fruits have edible skin and a sweeter, milder flavor. The vine is vigorous and productive, making it an excellent choice for home gardeners seeking an ornamental yet productive plant.
When should you plant Matua Kiwifruit in your zone?
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Example Matua Kiwifruit timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Matua Kiwifruit
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Matua Kiwifruit
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Matua Kiwifruit dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8, hardier than fuzzy kiwis and tolerates winter temperatures to -25°F
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Get my Matua Kiwifruit timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First yearYoung vine develops root system and initial stem growth. Limited leaf coverage.
Water regularly, provide sturdy support structure, protect from harsh winds, no pruning beyond removing damaged growth
Vegetative Growth
Years 2-3Vine grows vigorously, developing long shoots and dense foliage. Reaches 15-30 feet with proper support.
Train onto trellis or pergola, prune to establish main framework, thin crowded growth for air circulation, fertilize monthly during growing season
Flowering
3-4 weeksSmall, fragrant white flowers appear in spring (May-June in Northern Hemisphere) along the vine.
Ensure pollinator access (plant male and female vines nearby), avoid heavy pruning, maintain consistent watering, no fruit will set from male flowers
Fruit Development
8-10 weeksSmall green fruits develop and grow to marble or grape size (0.75-1.5 inches). Fruit remains green at maturity.
Thin fruit clusters if overcrowded, maintain consistent watering to prevent splitting, provide shade cloth in very hot regions, no additional fertilizer needed
Maturity & Harvest
August-October (varies by climate)Fruits reach full size, develop slight softness, and peak sweetness. Plant enters dormancy in fall.
Harvest when fruit yields slightly to pressure, allow ripening on vine for best flavor, prepare vine for dormancy by reducing water and stopping fertilizer in late summer
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge, use insecticidal soap, increase humidity, neem oil as last resort
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Monitor for yellowing leaves, prune affected growth, spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap in early season
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Hand-pick early morning, use Japanese beetle traps away from plants, apply spinosad if severe
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Remove with cotton swab and rubbing alcohol, spray with insecticidal soap, neem oil for heavy infestations
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and
Remove by hand (evening patrols), copper tape barriers, diatomaceous earth, beer traps
Uses
Fresh Eating & Smoothies
CulinaryMatua fruits have edible skin and can be eaten whole like grapes, with a sweet, tropical flavor profile. They're excellent in smoothies, desserts, and as a fresh snack. [source]
Preserves & Desserts
CulinaryThe fruits make excellent jams, compotes, and can be used in pastries, ice cream, and yogurt toppings. [source]
Vitamin C & Enzyme Source
MedicinalHardy kiwis are rich in vitamin C, actinidin (a proteolytic enzyme), and antioxidants, supporting digestive and immune health. [source]
Ornamental Landscaping
HouseholdThe vigorous vine with attractive foliage and delicate flowers provides excellent coverage for pergolas, arbors, and trellises while producing edible fruit. [source]
Pollinator & Wildlife Support
WildlifeFragrant flowers attract bees and beneficial insects; the vine provides shelter for birds and small wildlife. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Pick fruit in late August through October when it yields slightly to gentle pressure. Fruits will ripen off the vine if picked when firm. Mature fruits are sweeter and have softer skin. Handle gently to avoid bruising. Store in refrigerator for 1-2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Matua is a male clone of Actinidia arguta and must be planted with a female cultivar (like 'Anna' or 'Issai') to produce fruit; a single male vine can pollinate multiple females.
- 🌱 Unlike fuzzy kiwis, hardy kiwis can be eaten skin-and-all and are sometimes called 'kiwi berries' or 'Arctic kiwis' due to their cold-hardiness.
- 🌱 A single mature Matua vine can produce 50-100 pounds of fruit annually once established, making it highly productive for a perennial crop.
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