Also known as Arkansas Grape · Bunch Grape · Chicken Grape
Summer grape (Vitis aestivalis) is a vigorous native vine producing abundant clusters of small, dark, edible grapes, ideal for wildlife or naturalizing. Adapts to various
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
Consistent
50% intensity
Water deeply when topsoil is dry, especially during dry spells and fruiting. Reduce in fall.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate to Warm
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-27°C. It is a hardy vine that can withstand cold winters once established.
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize young vines annually in spring. Mature vines need less, applied every 2-3 years.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Vitis aestivalis prefers consistent moisture, especially during establishment and fruiting. Water deeply when the top 2-5 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in late fall as dormancy approaches.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot. Proper drainage is crucial for healthy growth.
Prune Vitis aestivalis in late winter while dormant to manage size, shape, and fruit production. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing canes.
Aim to establish a strong trunk and select a few fruiting canes for the current season's growth. Proper pruning encourages air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Summer grape can be propagated by hardwood cuttings taken in late winter, or by seed. Seeds require stratification. Softwood cuttings can be taken in early summer. Layering is also an effective method.
Successful propagation requires patience and suitable conditions for root development.
Repotting is generally not applicable to Vitis aestivalis as it is a large, woody vine typically grown outdoors.
If a young vine is container-grown, repot it into a larger container every 1-2 years in early spring before new growth begins. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Summer Grape (Vitis aestivalis)
Where Summer Grape (Vitis aestivalis) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Vitales |
| Family | Vitaceae |
| Genus | Vitis |
| Species | Vitis aestivalis |
Similar in genus Vitis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
