Origin and uses of kiwi
Ảnh: Wikimedia Commons.History of the name and characteristics of the climbing plant
Kiwi (Actinidia chinensis) is a climbing plant of the Actinidiaceae family, native to southern China. Before becoming widely known around the world, this fruit was called the "Chinese gooseberry". It was not until the early 20th century, when it was introduced to New Zealand and developed commercially, that it was named "kiwi", inspired by the country's iconic bird.
Kiwi is a woody climbing vine that can grow dozens of meters long when supported by trellises or posts. Its leaves are large, heart-shaped, and covered with fine hairs, while the flowers are creamy white or pale yellow, releasing a gentle fragrance. An interesting feature is that many kiwi vines are dioecious—having separate male and female plants—so cultivation requires proper arrangement to ensure pollination.
Fruit characteristics and nutritional composition
Kiwifruit stands out with its thin, slightly rough skin and vibrant green or yellow flesh, dotted with small black seeds arranged in an even circle. The flavor of kiwi is a harmonious blend of sweet and tart, sometimes with hints of strawberry, pineapple, or banana. Notably, the golden kiwi variety is milder, sweeter, and less tart, making it increasingly popular on the international market.
Not only delicious, kiwi is also a natural “nutritional powerhouse.” It contains very high levels of vitamin C, even surpassing oranges, along with fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. The enzyme actinidin in kiwi also supports protein digestion, making this fruit frequently used as a meat tenderizer in culinary arts.
Development in the global market
Nowadays, kiwi is widely cultivated in many temperate countries such as New Zealand, Italy, Chile, and China. The development of modern agriculture has transformed a once little-known fruit into a global product, appearing in everything from desserts and smoothies to salads.
From humble vines in the mountains of Asia, the kiwi has captivated the world with its refreshing flavor and exceptional nutritional value, standing as proof of how humanity can discover and share nature's precious gifts.