Frost Grape

Vitis cordifolia

Physical Characteristics

Vitis cordifolia is a deciduous Climber growing to 20 m (65ft 7in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. 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 and Eastern N. America - New York to Florida. Locally naturalized in Europe[50].

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Tea Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for winter use[1, 2, 161]. They are said to be unpalatable until they have been touched by frost[1, 11, 43, 182, 200]. A spicy flavour[177]. Quite tasty[219]. The fruit is about 8 - 12mm in diameter[200] and is produced in fairly large bunches[235]. Leaves - cooked[55]. Young leaves are wrapped around other foods and then baked, they impart a pleasant flavour. Young tendrils - raw or cooked[55, 85]. The twigs are a tea substitute[161].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known