Vitis riparia - River Grape

Sizes available: 6-12" bare root whips, coming in spring, 2026, pre-orders welcome

Basics: zones 3-9, can grow up to 75', but more often half that and takes well to pruning, sun to part shade, sweetly scented panicle of yellowish-green flowers in spring, ripens to bluish-black fruit from late summer into fall, tolerant as to soil texture and pH, does prefer consistent moisture, but has some drought tolerance

Common names: River Grape, Wild Grape, Riverbank Grape, Frost Grape

Family: Vitaceae

Origin/Distribution: Occurs from central to eastern Canada, south in all eastern states into Mexico. This plant has been introduced in parts of Europe as well as Washington state. Native to Maine.

Habitat: Found on disturbed woodlands - both upland and lowland, thickets, river banks, waste places, and railroad beds. 

More: Pollinated by various bees. Used for food and cover by birds and small mammals. The fruit is edible fresh or dried and has been used to make jelly and wine. Frost sweetens the grapes. Because of its adaptability, disease resistance, and cold tolerance it is used in wine-grape breeding programs and is also used as a rootstock for Vitis vinifera. The trunk of an old vine can be up to 8" in diameter. Fall leaf color is yellow and the bark is reddish-brown and exfoliating. Can shade out smaller trees and shrubs, so site accordingly. It climbs by tendrils and can be controlled by pruning. Salt and drought tolerant. Fruits best in full sun. According to Go Botany "Many insects feed on the leaves, stems, and roots." Can be used in flower arranging.

Source: small roots are from Cold Stream Farm and will be grown on to larger plants at Honey Petal Plants

Image credits: Leaves and fruit - BotBin via Creative Commons; later season fruit and vines by NadiaTalent via Creative Commons, both images courtesy of North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox