Actinidia chinensis 'Hayward'

The Hayward Fuzzy Kiwi Vine (Actinidia deliciosa 'Hayward') yields large, round green kiwis with the characteristic fuzzy brown skin familiar to most. Its juicy, green flesh offers a sweet and tangy taste, packed with tiny edible seeds, and is notably sweeter than many other green kiwi types. Valued commercially for its sizable fruit, attractive form, and abundant harvest, this variety produces kiwis measuring 5 to 8 cm in length and weighing 70 to 80 grams. Fruit ripening occurs from early to mid-October, typically following the first light frost, and is ready when slightly soft to the touch. This vigorous woody vine can reach heights of about 10 meters, with foliage that turns yellow in autumn. Hardy to zone 7a (-18 °C/0 °F), it requires early planting and winter protection in colder climates or container cultivation with indoor shelter during winter. White, mildly fragrant flowers bloom in June on previous year’s growth, so avoid pruning in fall or winter. As a female variety, 'Hayward' needs a male pollinator like Actinidia deliciosa 'Tomuri', with one male supporting 6 to 8 females for fruit production.