Habitat
As described on the History page,
Actinidia deliciosa
originated in northeastern China. This area was perfect for the
kiwifruit due to the location's temperate climate. Kiwifruit was also able
to survive in the New Zealand area because of the similar
climate. This climbing vine cannot survive in hot desert
temperatures nor cold, tundra temperatures. A mild, sunny
location with extremely well-drained soil is ideal for growing.
These plants need a large amount of water throughout the entire
growing season but will not be successful in consistently wet
areas. They need deep, organic rich soil as well. To say these plants
are high maintenance would be an understatement. This is why
they do not naturally grow in very many places. However, many
people have been able to create ideal conditions to cultivate
the vine and the delicious fruit
Necessary Habitat Conditions:
Sunny, but not too hot
Cool, but not freezing
Windy for pollination but not too strong
Moist soil but not too wet
Slightly acidic soil
A. deliciosa is by no means the only organism in the area. It
shares its home with many other plants and animals. The
kiwi
bird, for which it was named after, is the
national
icon of New Zealand and very common in the homes of the kiwifruit. There are
many
other animals that share this space, including the New
Zealand Falcon, the weta, the tuatara lizard and the masked
lapwing.