Are Grapes Trees or Vines?

Grape Vines

• Grapes grow on vines, not trees. The grape vine -- scientific name vitis vinifera -- is a climbing vine with stems that can grow up to 35 meters long in the wild. In cultivation however, the stems are usually trimmed and kept between 1 and 3 meters long. The grape vine is a woody perennial, with thin oval-shaped leaves. The grape vine is a flowering plant, with small clusters of sweet-scented, pale-green flowers.

Fruit

• The fruit of the grape vine ranges in shape from circular to oblong. Grapes grow in easily distinguishable clusters on the vines. Different grape vine cultivators produce different color grapes with slightly different flavoring characteristics. Common grape colors include light yellow, green, red and dark purple. The color of the grape is particularly important when making wine (red grape skins provide most of the coloring for red wine).

History

• Wild grapes were first cultivated in Asia Minor, where they are still grown today. The grape vine eventually spread throughout the Northern Hemisphere, where the climate tends to be better suited for growing grapes. The leaves, sap and juice of the grape vines and their fruit have been (and in some cases still are) used in folk medicine to treat skin disease, stomach problems, throat infections and even cancer.

Growing Grapes

• Grape vines grow from cuttings taken from other grape vines. In order for a grape vine to grow well, however, it must be planted in a region where the conditions are perfectly suited for that particular type of grape. Different cultivars of grapes can be grown in different climates, but in general, grapes need a climate that provides a period of dry sunshine in order to provide nutrients to the fruit. Grape vines prefer soil that allows good drainage, like gravelly clay loams or sandy soil. Grape vines can be set in either the fall or the early spring. Grape vines also require a support system like a fence or a trellis around which to grow. Grapes should be picked when they are completely ripe. Taste, aroma and physical appearance will tell you when to harvest your grapes.