Muscadine - Vitis rotundifolia (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Edible)

Muscadine

Also known as: Bullace grape, Scuppernong

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.

Scientific classification

Species

Muscadine (Vitis rotundifolia)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Vine

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

18 m to 30 m

Plant Height

18 m to 30 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Gold

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green, Black, Purple, Copper, Lavender

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Muscadine

Attributes of Muscadine

Growth Rate

Broadening its vegetative state during Spring, muscadine in Summer expedites leaf production and stem extension with a moderate growth rate. By Fall, bloom clusters mature and harden in response to the continued moderate growth, greatly influencing the production of round, leathery fruit. The growth rate variability across seasons underscores its unique phenological adaptations.

Distribution of Muscadine

Distribution Map

The muscadine plant is native to the southeastern and south-central United States, parts of Africa. growing in forests and disturbed areas. It was introduced to India. The plant can also be invasive when it escapes cultivation.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods, Thickets, Sandhills, Shores

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Muscadine (Vitis rotundifolia) is an attractive climbing vine that is grown mainly for its grapes which can be eaten or used in wine-making. This vine climbs well on posts, trellises, and frames. It makes a great addition to shady spots in vegetable and fruit gardens as well as cottage or woodland gardens. It pairs well with other vines like gooseberries, blackberries, and raspberries.

Symbolism

Temporal blessing, abundance, prosperity, endurance

Interesting Facts

The muscadine grapevine has been heavily cultivated since the 16th century for its use making wines, juices, and jellies. Consumer research has found that many markets are weary of purchasing muscadine grapes due to the consistency of their skins and the inconsistency of crop quality. These grapes are known to have thick skins compared to other grapevines used to make wine.

Name Story

Scuppernong: This name comes from the place where it was discovered, Scuppernong River. In the Algonquian language, this name is referred to as the meaning of "sweet bay tree". "Scupong" is referring to all bronze and green varieties of Vitis rotundifolia.

Muscadine: The fruit of this plant has the same appearance as common grapes, except that its skin is thicker and the seeds are more bitter. The most interesting part is the way they name this plant. Many people call bronze Vitis rotundifolia, Scuppernong while for the purple or black Vitis rotundifolia, Muscadine.

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Toxicity

Muscadine fruits pose moderate toxicity to cats and dogs if ingested, causing symptoms like discomfort, gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. Pet owners should be vigilant and seek immediate veterinary care if adverse reactions are observed to ensure the animals' well-being. Swift action is essential to mitigate the potential health risks associated with muscadine ingestion.}

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Quickly Identify Muscadine

Climbing deciduous vine with twining tendrils

Large, shiny leaves with blunt serration

Spherical berries up to 1 inch (2.54 cm)

Woody stems ranging from 0.5 to 2 inches (1.2 to 5 cm) in diameter

Bark transitions from greenish-brown to dark brown with vertical grooves

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Care Guide for Muscadine

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Native to the humid southeastern United States, muscadine prefers consistent moisture but withstands short droughts. Water weekly to maintain balance. Typically grown outdoors, muscadine benefits from mulching to retain moisture during its active growing season.

Fertilize: Optimal care for muscadine requires balanced nutrition via a 10-10-10 fertilizer applied early spring and every 2-3 months during growth. Adjust quantities based on vine age and size; over-fertilization can hinder fruiting. Monitor seasonal needs and perform annual soil tests for personalized nutrient delivery.

Pruning: Pruning muscadine is essential for growth and disease prevention. Key practices include removing excess buds, thinning flower spikes before blooming, and performing winter pruning to strengthen the trunk. Retain strong buds on fruiting branches and apply protective agents to larger wounds to prevent infections.

Propagation: Muscadine, a resilient grape native to the southeastern U.S., grows well in various soils. For propagation, use healthy mother plants and take semi-hardwood cuttings during dormancy. Plant in well-draining soil, maintain moisture, and use rooting hormone to enhance root growth at buried nodes.

Repotting: Repot muscadine every 2-3 years, preferably in spring, using a large, sturdy container. Provide indirect light and consistent moisture post-repotting. Use a loamy, well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot and support the vine's growth.

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Images of Muscadine

Attributes of Muscadine

Distribution of Muscadine

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Muscadine

Care Guide for Muscadine

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