Vitis rotundifolia (Muscadine Grape)

The Vitis rotundifolia, or Muscadine Grape is a deciduous plant native to North America, ranging from Delaware south to Florida, west to Kansas and Mexico. Muscadines are a sturdy vine or creeper with deeply dented evergreen leaves, producing small clusters of small, firm, juicy and sweet fruits that can range in color from bronze to dark purple to black when ripe. They have a skin sufficiently tough that biting a small hole in the skin to suck out the pulp inside is often necessary in order to eat the raw fruit.

The uses of the muscadine grape are diverse and delightful. Fresh muscadines can be eaten as is, or used to make jelly, jams, pies and other treats. They can also be juiced and made into wine. Furthermore, consuming muscadine grapes has many health benefits, as they are high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C and E and manganese. Muscadine wines and juices also boast other benefits such as relief from colds and flu.

For those looking to grow their own muscadine grapes, they need plenty of sun with good air drainage. Plant will grow in USDA Zone 5-9. When grown in northern climates, muscadines make great plants for container gardening, as long as they are provided with regular water.

Muscadine grapes are a delicious, healthy and versatile North American native. Not only can these grapes be eaten fresh, they can also be used to make juices, jellies and wines that are great for everything from a sweet wine to a health tonic. With some regular watering and plenty of sun, these hardy vines will bear a bounty of delicious grapes.