A fruit that has been around for more than 2,000 years
The kiwi is the fruit of a vine that resembles a grapevine. It is native to China, where it has been enjoyed for over 2,000 years. Introduced to France in 1904, it wasn’t until 1960 that kiwi cultivation took off on a large scale. Today, it is one of the most widely cultivated fruits in the world.
There are about thirty different species, but only five are edible. The most common one found on our plates is Actinidia deliciosa.
The kiwi is a dioecious species, meaning there are male and female plants. In orchards, one male plant is planted for every six female plants to ensure optimal pollination. Bees play a vital role in pollen transfer. That is why beehives are often set up near orchards. Kiwis have excellent nutritional value and are said to have very beneficial medicinal properties. A single kiwi contains a very high amount of fiber.
The kiwi tree is native to China. It was in 1959 that it took on the name by which it is known today, when it was planted in New Zealand. Its name, “kiwi,” refers to the kiwi, the country’s native bird.
