Contents
Description
Actinidiaceae is a family of flowering plants native to eastern Asia and parts of Australasia. It is commonly known as the Kiwi family, due to the presence of the genus Actinidia, which includes the kiwifruit. The family consists of around 300 species of mostly woody vines, shrubs, and trees. Many species in this family are economically important for their fruit, ornamental value, and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Actinidiaceae |
| Genus | Actinidia |
Appearance
Actinidiaceae plants have a wide range of appearance, from woody vines to shrubs and trees. They typically have large, alternate leaves with a simple or lobed shape. The flowers are usually small and have 5-6 petals, with a variety of colors ranging from white to pink, yellow, and red. The fruit is typically a berry, often covered in a fuzzy or hairy skin. The most well-known fruit in this family is the kiwifruit, which is a large, brown, fuzzy fruit with green flesh and black seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Actinidiaceae plants prefer consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
Fertilize Actinidiaceae plants in early spring before new growth begins, and again in mid-summer. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil
Actinidiaceae plants prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Add organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve soil quality.
Sunlight
Actinidiaceae plants prefer full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, provide partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones
Actinidiaceae plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-9, depending on the species.
Common Pests & Diseases
Actinidiaceae plants are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, mites, and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation or disease, and treat promptly with insecticides or fungicides as needed.
Habitat
Actinidiaceae plants are native to eastern Asia and parts of Australasia, and can be found in a variety of habitats including forests, scrublands, and grasslands. Many species in this family are economically important for their fruit, ornamental value, and medicinal properties.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the most well-known fruit in the Actinidiaceae family?
A: The most well-known fruit in this family is the kiwifruit.
Q: Which hardiness zones are Actinidiaceae plants hardy in?
A: Actinidiaceae plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-9, depending on the species.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Actinidiaceae plants?
A: Actinidiaceae plants are susceptible to aphids, scale insects, mites, and powdery mildew.
Q: What is the preferred soil pH for Actinidiaceae plants?
A: Actinidiaceae plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Related Plants
- Actinidia arguta (Hardy kiwi)
- Actinidia chinensis (Chinese gooseberry)
- Actinidia deliciosa (Kiwi fruit)
- Actinidia kolomikta (Arctic beauty kiwi)
- Actinidia polygama (Silver vine)
References
- “Actinidiaceae.” Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 20 July 1998, www.britannica.com/plant/Actinidiaceae.
- “Actinidiaceae.” USDA Plants Database, United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/java/ClassificationServlet?source=display&classid=Actinidiaceae.
- “Actinidiaceae.” The Plant List, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Actinidiaceae/.
