How to identify Summer grape (Vitis aestivalis)
Summer grape, also known as Silverleaf grape
Summer grape presents as a vigorous deciduous vine with the ability to stretch extensively, given adequate support. Juvenile branches exhibit a light green to yellowish or sometimes reddish hue, transitioning to a mature bark that peels into long, shredded strips with a gray to reddish-brown color. The vine climbs via twining tendrils, which facilitate its spread over fences and through vegetation. In ideal conditions, the trunk's diameter can expand to a substantial 6 inches (15 cm).
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Vine
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Vigorous deciduous vine with twining tendrils for climbing support
Tiny greenish-yellow star-shaped flowers in branched panicles
Dark purple to black berries in tight grape-like clusters
Oval leaves with hairy petioles, woolly undersides, dull green upper surface
Multi-stemmed growth with rugged, peeling bark in gray to reddish-brown
The leaves of summer grape are oval to orbicular, measuring 3–8 inches (7.5–20 cm) in width. The upper surface is a dull medium green, often with slight hairiness. The lower surface is pale green, covered in woolly hair ranging from white to light brown. The petioles are hairy and range from 3–6 inches (7.5–15 cm) in length. These distinct characteristics help in identifying summer grape's foliage.
The flowers of summer grape are tiny, measuring no more than 1/8 inch (3 mm) in diameter. They form in loose, branched clusters called panicles, which range from 2 to 5 inches (5 to 13 cm) in length. Each flower is greenish-yellow and has a delicate, star-like shape with five small petals. These flowers typically bloom from May to June, filling the air with a subtle fragrance. Their intricate structure is crucial for identification, adding a delicate beauty to the plant.
The stem of summer grape is characterized by its multi-stemmed growth habit. The bark ranges in color from gray to reddish-brown and is notable for peeling into long, shredded strips, particularly on older vines. The texture is rugged, with a somewhat fibrous appearance. The stems typically measure between 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) in diameter. They display a climbing or sprawling growth pattern with intermittent branching, making it well-adapted to support structures.
The fruit of summer grape emerges as a delectable attribute appealing to various fauna and flora enthusiasts. Notably ripening from September to October in regions like North Carolina, these fruits typically adopt a dark purple to black hue. Their spherical berries, often about 0.25 to 0.5 inches (6 to 12 mm) in diameter, manifest in tight clusters that can be visually reminiscent of common grapes. The skin of the fruit is smooth with a subtle waxy coating, providing a subtle sheen, while the interior flesh encases seeds and is known for its juicy, sweet, yet sometimes tart flavor. This fruit's distinctive color and seasonal availability constitute key identification traits.
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Scientific Classification of Summer grape
