How to identify Wine grape (Vitis vinifera)

How to identify Wine grape (Vitis vinifera)

Wine grape, also known as European grape

Wine grape is characterized by broad, lobed leaves and unique tendrils that aid in its climbing growth habit. The leaves' shape is occasionally likened to that of fig leaves but is notably distinct by the climbing nature of wine grape. These leaves typically grow to about 5-7 inches (12-18 cm) in width, with a heart-shaped base and serrated margins. Wine grape produces clusters of small, round berries that transition from green to purple as they mature. The tendrils, which emerge opposite the leaves, facilitate attachment to structures and support the plant's upward growth.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Vine

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Wine grape

Heart-shaped leaves with serrated margins, 5-7 inches (12-18 cm) wide.

Clusters of tiny, green to purple berries with distinct tendrils for climbing.

Pendulous, non-showy flowers in dense thryses, emit a sweet fragrance.

Oval-shaped berries with a frosted appearance, varying in colors and flavors.

Woody stem, 0.5-1.5 inches (1.2-3.8 cm) thick, with a rough, gnarled texture.

Detailed Traits of Wine grape

Leaf Features

The leaves of wine grape are large, palmately lobed, and typically measure 3-10 inches (5-25 cm) in width. They are characterized by their 3-5 distinct lobes and a coarsely toothed margin. The leaf undersides are pale white and may exhibit a slightly fuzzy texture. Each node opposite the leaves features tendrils. The veins are clearly defined, enhancing the leaf's structural aesthetic. These characteristics make the leaves a prominent feature for identification.

Leaf Base

Cordate

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Flower Features

The flowers of wine grape are found in numerous pendulous clusters, known for their dense thryses. Each tiny flower is non-showy, greenish-white in color, and very fragrant. The flowers are about 0.1 inches (0.25 cm) across and form dense, cone-shaped inflorescences. They bloom during late spring to early summer, emitting a sweet fragrance that attracts various pollinators. These tiny flowers are essential for the subsequent development of the plant's well-known fruit clusters.

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Stem Features

The stem of wine grape is woody and robust, displaying a notable brownish-gray coloration. It tends to be moderately thick, usually between 0.5 to 1.5 inches (1.2 to 3.8 cm) in diameter. The texture is somewhat rough with a fibrous exterior and may have a somewhat gnarled or knotted appearance due to the vine's growth habit. Branching occurs frequently, creating a lattice or network-like pattern that supports extensive spread and climbing.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of wine grape present in clusters with individual oval-shaped berries, varying in size. Ranging in color from green to deep purple, the berries sport a distinctive glaucous coating giving them a frosted appearance. They feature a smooth skin and may be seedless or contain 3 to 4 pyriform seeds, depending on the cultivar. Notably sweet or sour, the fruits come in diverse shades like dark blue-purple, red, green, or yellow, catering to varying palates.

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Wine grape and Their Similar Plants

Riverbank grape vs. Wine grape: What's The Difference?

The riverbank grape is a woody vine that can grow up to 15 m in length. It uses tendrils to climb trees, shrubs, and fences. Riverbank grape is native to North America and is found extensively throughout Canada, as well as the Northcentral and Northeastern United States.

Muscadine vs. Wine grape: What's The Difference?

Muscadine (Vitis rotundifolia) is a grapevine species native to North America. Compared to its close relative Vitis vinifera, muscadine has small clusters of round berries that have thicker skin and fleshier texture. The berries are usually dark purple or black when ripe.

Frost grape vs. Wine grape: What's The Difference?

Frost grape (Vitis vulpina) is a species of perennial grapevine found throughout the United States and Canada. Frost grape is also called the winter grape, fox grape, and the wild grape. This species is used commercially for making wine.

Summer grape vs. Wine grape: What's The Difference?

Summer grape (Vitis aestivalis) is a fruit bearing species native to the central and eastern United States. The cultivar Norton is considered one of the oldest American grapes in commercial production. However, the summer grape has limited commercial viticulture. This is due to its low acidity and neutral flavor profile.

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Key Facts About Wine grape

Attributes of Wine grape

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Vine

Plant Height

32 m

Spread

4 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Green

Yellow

Fruit Color

Black

Green

Brown

Red

Burgundy

Yellow

Purple

Blue

Lavender

Stem Color

Green

Leaf type

Deciduous

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Scientific Classification of Wine grape

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

Wine grape (Vitis vinifera)

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Distribution Map of Wine grape

Wine grape has a sizeable native region, originating from Southern Europe and the Middle East, where it grows naturally in moist woodland and by the side of rivers. This beloved crop has been introduced globally, and has become established in parts of the Americas, Asia, and Africa.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

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A Comprehensive Guide to Wine grape How to Grow and Care for Wine grape