Contents
Description
Vitis Vulpina, commonly known as the frost grape, is a species of grapevine that is native to North America. It is a deciduous climber that can grow up to 20 feet tall and spread up to 15 feet wide. This plant produces a woody stem that is sometimes smooth or sometimes covered in tendrils. It has greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the summer, and its fruit is a small, purple-black grape that ripens in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Vitales |
| Family | Vitaceae |
| Genus | Vitis |
Appearance
Vitis Vulpina has large, lobed leaves that are green and turn a bright red in the fall. The leaves can grow up to 8 inches in diameter and are arranged alternately on the stem. The plant produces clusters of small, greenish-yellow flowers, which later give way to small, round, purple-black berries that are about 1/4 inch in diameter. The berries are edible, but they are not commonly used for wine-making due to their low sugar content.
Care Guide
Water
Vitis Vulpina requires regular watering during the growing season, especially when it is young. However, it can tolerate drought once it is established. Do not over-water the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Do not over-fertilize as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and poor fruit production.
Soil
Vitis Vulpina prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 5.5 and 7.0.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Vitis Vulpina is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vitis Vulpina is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including powdery mildew, downy mildew, black rot, and phylloxera. The plant may also attract birds that can damage the fruit. To prevent these problems, use a fungicide and insecticide as needed, and cover the fruit with netting to protect them from birds.
Habitat
Vitis Vulpina is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, stream banks, and thickets. It prefers moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate drought once it is established.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Vitis Vulpina be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Vitis Vulpina can be grown in a container, but it requires a large container and regular pruning to control its growth.
Q: How often should Vitis Vulpina be pruned?
A: Vitis Vulpina should be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged wood and prune to maintain the desired shape and size.
Q: Is Vitis Vulpina self-pollinating?
A: No, Vitis Vulpina requires cross-pollination from another grapevine to produce fruit.
Q: How long does it take for Vitis Vulpina to produce fruit?
A: Vitis Vulpina typically begins to produce fruit 2-3 years after planting.
Related Plants
- Vitis Labrusca
- Vitis Vinifera
- Vitis Riparia
- Vitis Rotundifolia
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Ball, J. M., & Lamb, P. R. (1990). Viticulture: an introduction to commercial grape growing for wine production. Interstate Publishers.
- Society, A. H. (2010). The American Horticultural Society A-Z encyclopedia of garden plants. DK Publishing.
