Matatabi (Actinidia polygama) - live plant

• A live, rooted plant
• Hardy ornamental climber
• Packaging suited to live plants

Actinidia polygama belongs to the Actinidiaceae, the kiwi family. It is a twining vine that climbs several metres, with oval, pointed leaves.

Its ornamental feature is striking: as flowering approaches, the tips of the leaves turn white, as if dipped in silver paint. This whitening is temporary and mainly affects exposed shoots. It is what earns the plant its name of silver vine.

The white, fragrant flowers are followed by small elongated fruits.

Matatabi is to Japan what catnip is to Europe. Cats often react to it more strongly than to catmint, Nepeta cataria, and some cats that are indifferent to catmint do react to matatabi.

If you plant one in the garden and cats visit the area, protect the young plant with wire mesh in its first year: they can flatten it by rubbing against it. Once the vine is established and woody, it has nothing more to fear.

A hardy plant, easy to grow. Ordinary, moist soil, sun or partial shade, and a sturdy support: it is a vigorous vine that takes up space.

Like other actinidias, it likes soil that does not dry out in summer. It can be pruned in late winter to keep it in check.

What is the difference from catnip?
Classic catnip is Nepeta cataria, a herbaceous plant. Matatabi is a woody vine, and the compounds involved are different. Some cats indifferent to one react to the other.

Why do the leaves turn white?
It is a natural, seasonal phenomenon linked to flowering. The leaves turn green again afterwards. It is neither a disease nor a deficiency.

Is it hardy in France?
Yes, without any problem in the vast majority of the country.

Do you need a male and a female plant to get fruit?
As with kiwis, fruiting generally requires two plants. For the foliage and the feline interest, one is enough.

Also worth exploring: our rare plants and our aromatic plants.