California Wild Grape
(Vitis californica)
California Wild Grape (Vitis californica)
/
/
Public domain
Public domain
Image By:
Public domain
Recorded By:
Copyright:
Public domain
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Public domain | License Type: Public domain | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/public-domain/ | Uploader: KP Botany~commonswiki | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Vitis_californica_at_Caswell_Memorial_State_Park_spring_leaves.jpg | Notes: User created page with UploadWizard |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Vitis californica, commonly known as California Wild Grape, is a deciduous perennial vine native to the chaparral and riparian zones of California and southwestern Oregon. It can grow over 10 m (33 ft) in length, climbing on other plants or sprawling across the ground with twisted, woody ropes of vine adorned with large, lobed green leaves. In the fall, the foliage transitions to vibrant shades of orange and yellow, providing a striking display. The vine produces bunches of small, purple grapes that are often sour but edible and can be used to make wine or jelly. These grapes are an important food source for wildlife, particularly birds, and the dense foliage offers substantial cover. The grapes are frequently seen along the Sacramento River and other waterways.
California Wild Grape is valued for its vigorous growth and the ornamental quality of its autumn foliage. It is used in gardens and landscapes for its ability to cover arbors and trellises, creating natural shade and privacy screens. The plant’s robust nature has led to its use as rootstock in viticulture. However, its strong growth can also pose challenges, as it may require regular pruning to manage its spread. It thrives in full sun, tolerates a range of water conditions from low to medium, and adapts to various soil types with different drainage speeds. While it is a resilient and low-maintenance vine, it can become invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should consult local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
California Wild Grape is valued for its vigorous growth and the ornamental quality of its autumn foliage. It is used in gardens and landscapes for its ability to cover arbors and trellises, creating natural shade and privacy screens. The plant’s robust nature has led to its use as rootstock in viticulture. However, its strong growth can also pose challenges, as it may require regular pruning to manage its spread. It thrives in full sun, tolerates a range of water conditions from low to medium, and adapts to various soil types with different drainage speeds. While it is a resilient and low-maintenance vine, it can become invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should consult local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Vine
- Height: 2-8 feet
- Width: 1-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to chaparral and riparian zones of California and southwestern Oregon
Other Names
Common Names: Pacific Grape , North California Grape
Scientific Names: Vitis californica
GBIF Accepted Name: Vitis californica Benth.