Summer Grape

Vitis aestivalis argentifolia

Physical Characteristics

Vitis aestivalis argentifolia is a deciduous Climber growing to 25 m (82ft 0in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Southern and Eastern N. America - Ontario to Alabama. Locally naturalized in Europe[50].

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Sap Edible Uses: Fruit - raw, cooked in jellies, jams, pies etc or dried for later use[1, 2, 22, 46, 183]. Sweet and agreeably flavoured[2, 183]. The taste is best after a frost[101].The dried fruits are eaten as snacks or used in baked goods[183]. The fruit is about 8mm in diameter[200]. Leaves - cooked[55, 159]. Young leaves are wrapped around other foods and then baked, they impart a pleasant flavour. A sweet watery sap is obtained from the stem[101, 183]. Used as a refreshing drink. Young tendrils - raw or cooked[55, 85, 159].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known