Sand Grape

Vitis rupestris

Physical Characteristics

Vitis rupestris is a deciduous Climber growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). It is in flower from May to June, 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 Central N. America - Pennsylvania to Columbia, Missouri and Texas. Locally natin Europe[50]

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or dried for winter use[1, 2, 11, 105]. Very sweet[183]. A pleasant flavour[182]. The fruit is about 6 - 12mm in diameter[200] and is borne in reasonable sized bunches. Leaves - cooked[55]. Young leaves are wrapped around other foods and then baked, they impart a pleasant flavour. Young tendrils - raw or cooked.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known