Riverbank Grape

Vitis riparia

Physical Characteristics

Vitis riparia is a deciduous Climber growing to 15 m (49ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects, Bees, Wind. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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

Eastern and Central N. America. Locally naturalized in Europe[50].

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Sap Shoots Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or dried for later use[22, 46, 62, 161, 183]. Juicy and somewhat acid[183]. The taste is best after a frost[101]. The fruit is about 6 - 12mm in diameter[200] and is carried in fairly large bunches[K]. Leaves - cooked[55, 159]. Young leaves are wrapped around other foods and then baked, they impart a pleasant flavour. Young tendrils - raw or cooked[55, 85, 159]. Sap - raw[101, 161]. A sweet flavour, it is used as a drink[183]. The sap can be harvested in the spring and early summer, though it should not be taken in quantity or it will weaken the plant[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known