The genus Vitis is made up of woody, deciduous climbers and shrubs in 65 or so species from woodland, forest edges, and thickets in north temperate regions. Panicles of tiny green flowers are followed by grapes, which are edible in some species. Vines climb by tendrils and the ornamental species can be used on a trellis, pergola, fence, or against a wall.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsFlaking bark. Sometimes edible fruit.
CareGrow in full sun or partial shade, and well-drained, neutral to alkaline, organically rich soil.
PropagationSow seed in containers in a cold frame in spring or fall. Take hardwood cuttings in late winter. Root cuttings with a single bud in early spring. Layer in fall.
ProblemsDowny mildew, canker and dieback, Botrytis, Pierce's disease, black rot, powdery mildew, mushroom root rot, leaf spot, grape leaf skeletonizer, Japanese beetles, scale insects, mealybugs.
