New exotic species of German agriculture: kiwi berries ‹ Fruit portal

SUPERFOOD IN A LITTLE FORM: Not only do kiwi berries look exotic—like a tiny kiwi only without the typical kiwi fur—they’re also packed with healthy nutrients and taste wonderfully mild and sweet. But the best thing about the hardy green fruits is that they grow in our latitudes and don’t have to be imported from New Zealand or elsewhere on the Mediterranean like their better-known big sisters, the kiwi, according to the German Fruit and Vegetables website.

Photo © BVue/Ariane Bailey

Unlike kiwi, kiwi berries feel very comfortable in our climate. The fruits, also known as kiwi, honeyberry, sharp-toothed ray, kukua or nergi, also come originally from Southeast Asia, but because they are extremely easy to care for and frost-resistant, they are ideal for cultivation in this country.

Creative, innovative and close to home

Photo © BVue/Ariane Bailey

Regionalism is in vogue, as is something new from the world of fine dining! In order to reconcile these two trends, more and more German producers are relying on new and sometimes exotic varieties of fruits and vegetables in addition to planting tried and tested varieties. Provided these newcomers have a real chance in our climatic latitudes, like the kiwi’s little sister, the kiwiberry. German agriculture not only accommodates the changing eating culture of Germans, but also makes a positive contribution to the ecological balance thanks to short transportation routes. And you can taste it!

With a bite in the mouth

Photo © BVue/Ariane Bailey

A small kiwi, about 2 to 3 centimeters long, is larger than a gooseberry but smaller than a small plum. It has a smooth, edible green peel, but can also be yellow-green, bright or dark red, depending on the variety. This makes kiwis the perfect fruit for snacking – without peeling, cutting or spooning. In this country, the season for the temperate sweet raspberry bush (Actinidia arguta) is from August to November. Then you can find kiwis in miniature form on fruit shelves in discount stores and supermarkets.

Source: BVEO – German fruits and vegetables

Release date: October 19, 2023