Species information
Scientific name: Actinidia rufa
Japanese name: シマサルナシ
Chinese name: 腺齒獼猴桃
English name: Actinidia rufa
Origin: Southern Japan, the Ryukyu Islands, northern Taiwan, islands in southwestern Korea
Ecology and description
Actinidia rufa is a close relative of the kiwifruit, and it is a vine, not a tree. People living in Yambaru used to pick and eat the fruit often. However, the vines are always high up, so sometimes the whole vine has to be cut to reach the fruit. The fruit is also a favorite of birds and small animals in Okinawa.
Field photographs taken during our tours, with observation dates
In October, you may have a chance to see the kiwifruit-like fruit of this species on the 【Forest Walk】 tour.
