ACTINIDIA CORIACEA Meaning and
Definition
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Actinidia coriacea, commonly known as the Chinese kiwifruit, is a dioecious, woody vine belonging to the Actinidiaceae family. Native to China, specifically the Yunnan province, this plant is highly valued for its delicious and nutritious fruit.
The Actinidia coriacea vine has a twining habit and can reach heights of up to 6 meters. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that are dark green and leathery, providing an attractive foliage. The flowers are small, white, and produced in clusters, typically appearing in late spring or early summer. The male and female flowers are borne on separate plants, and cross-pollination is necessary for fruit production.
The fruit of Actinidia coriacea is a type of kiwifruit, slightly smaller than other common varieties. It has a rough, brownish skin with a velvety texture, and its flesh is pale green in color with a sweet and tangy taste. The fruit is highly nutritious, being an excellent source of Vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.
Actinidia coriacea is typically grown in well-drained soil in areas with a mild climate. It requires adequate sunlight and a trellis or other support structure for the vine to climb. The plant is susceptible to frost damage, so protection may be needed in colder regions. It is often cultivated for its delicious fruit, which is consumed fresh and also used in various culinary applications, such as desserts, salads, and smoothies.
Etymology of ACTINIDIA CORIACEA
The word "Actinidia coriacea" is a scientific binomial name for a species of flowering plant commonly known as the "korean tea vine" or "leathery kiwi".
The word "Actinidia" is derived from the Greek words "aktis" meaning "ray" or "beam" and "eidos" meaning "form" or "shape". This is a reference to the radial pattern of the plant's white flowers.
The specific epithet "coriacea" is derived from the Latin word "coriaceus", which means "leathery" or "resembling leather". It is used to describe the tough, leathery texture of the plant's leaves.
