Vitis vulpina aka Wild Grape

Taxonomy

Vitis vulpina, also known as frost grape, winter grape, fox grape, and wild grape, is a North American species of herbaceous perennial vines in the grape family. This high-climbing woody vine has a thick trunk and red tendrils and is widespread across most of the eastern and central United States as well as the Canadian Province of Ontario. The genus name Vitis comes from the Latin word for "vine" and the species name vulpina comes from the Latin word for "fox-like" or belonging to a fox, as foxes were attracted to this type of grapevine. Frost grape is a long-lived, native woody deciduous vine that is typically found in upland woodlands and forests but occasionally in bottom land areas. Its distinguishing feature from similar grape species is its greenish-yellow undersides. This otherwise acidic/tart-tasting grape becomes more desirable and sweet once it is exposed to a frost, hence the common name "frost grape". The grapes and the vine itself have many uses ranging from herbal remedies to edible delicacies. However, frost grape does not do well in cold temperatures below -23 degrees F.

Common names

Wild Grape, Frost Grape, Winter Grape

How to care for Wild Grape

Difficulty

Wild Grape presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Wild Grape should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Wild Grape loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Wild Grape thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Winter Grape.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Wild Grape to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Wild Grape should be done either when it has doubled in size or on a yearly basis, whichever occurs sooner. Fresh potting soil with all the required nutrients, refreshed annually, will provide the plant with all the necessary sustenance, making the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that plants receive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia