Grape

The Grape is an extremely popular fruit, so it is hardly unusual the Vitis genus might be grown at home. But grapevines are not only used to harvest fruit. They are excellent climbers, with their large, lobed leaves revitalizing mundane walls and trellises in summer before turning inspiring shades of gold and copper in autumn. Some species provide dense panicles of extremely fragrant white or light green flowers, filling the air with the sweet aroma, with bunches of round, succulent fruits appearing later. Grapevines require deep, richly fertile, loam soil to thrive. Growing under glass is ideal, though a sheltered spot and sufficient protection can see it prosper outdoors too.

Grape 'Brant'

Crimson Glory Vine

There's no secret why Vitis coignetiae is better-known as the Crimson Glory Vine. Its foliage, light to mid-green in summer, becomes an unmistakably fiery shade of crimson red in autumn. A vigorous climber, it has fast become a favourite for urban and rural gardeners alike, especially since it is amongst the hardiest of the Vitis genus. Its large leaves are slightly lobed but are broad enough to ensure any wall or trellis is adequately covered. And while its blossoms in summer are inconspicuous, and its fruit is only a small black berry, its impact can be inspiring. Growing the Crimson Glory Vine in well-drained alkaline soil is best, while pruning young shoots in summer is recommended.

Crimson Glory Vine 'Claret Cloak'

Common Grape

Vitis vinifera is the common grape vine. It's been with us since at least the Neolithic period and has been used by man ever since. It has large lobed leaves and produces the green, red, white or black berries we know of as grapes. They're fast growing and have flaky bark. Grapes are used widely, eaten raw, dried to make raisins or used in the production of wine. Because of their varied uses they are widely grown all over the world. Grape cultivation was introduced to Europe by the ancient Greeks. Grape plants have been used medicinally to cure a wide range of ailments, from eye and skin conditions to haemorrhoids. The leaves themselves are also used in cooking, usually filled with meat or rice. Grapes are actually reasonably hardy, but if you do live in a cooler climate it's advisable to grow them in a greenhouse where they will flourish and grow at a rapid rate.

Common Grape 'Black Alicante'

Common Grape 'Black Hamburg'

Common Grape 'Cabernet-Sauvignon'

Common Grape 'Crimson Seedless'

Common Grape 'Dornfelder'

Common Grape 'Flame Seedless'

Common Grape 'Fragola'

Common Grape 'Golden Champion'

Common Grape 'Lakemont'

Common Grape 'Madeleine Angevine'

Common Grape 'Madeleine Noire'

Common Grape 'Muscat Bleu'

Common Grape 'Nero dAvola'