Frost Grape Vitis riparia

Riverbank grape is a fast-growing, climbing, or trailing vine in the Vitaceae (grape) family that grows up 75 feet long. This woody perennial can climb over tree trunks and up into the canopy of trees by the use of tendrils. It can potentially kill small trees and shrubs due to heavy shading. The vine is distinguished by its reddish-brown bark that shreds into narrow strips, and its heart-shaped, three-lobed leaves with toothed margins. Tiny clusters of sweetly scented yellow-greenish flowers appear in the spring and are followed by clusters of bluish-black fruits in late summer and fall.  This plant is a member of the Vitaceae or grape family.

Riverbank grape is native to North America. It is found in Central to Eastern Canada to Mexico, the eastern United States, and portions of western United States. It is commonly found in disturbed areas of lower and upper woodlands, dunes, thickets, riverbanks, abandoned fields, and along railroads.

The origin of the genus name, Vitis, is Latin for "grapevine." The species name, riparia, means "of the riverbank."

This plant fruits best when grown in full sun; however, it can become aggressive. It is tolerant of most soil textures and pH levels and prefers moist to dry soil. Propagation methods include stem cuttings and seeds; however, the plant may be slow to start from seed. The seeds may also be dispersed by birds or small mammals.

The leaves are 4 to 6 inches long and about as wide. The young leaves are yellow, shiny, and covered with hairs that disappear as the leaf matures. Mature leaves are green with reddish petioles. The tiny flowers are arranged in 3-to-8-inch panicles. The fruits are clusters of bluish-black grapes covered in white bloom. The berry has 1 to 4 flat, egg-shaped seeds.

The flowers are pollinated by bees and bumblebees. This plant serves as a source of cover and food. The fruits of the riverbank grape are enjoyed by birds and small mammals. The fruits are edible for human consumption and may be eaten fresh, dried, or made into jellies. It is important to properly identify the plant before ingestion because other similar-looking plants are poisonous.

Seasons of Interest:

Bark:  Winter    Bloom: Late Spring and Early Summer    Foliage: Spring, Summer, and Fall      Fruits: Late Summer and Fall   

Quick ID Hints:

• Reddish-brown bark that shreds and peels into narrow strips
• Alternate, simple, heart-shaped, toothed, and lobed leaves
• Tendrils arise at a node opposite of the leaf
• Leaf petioles are red

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: The plant may be frequented by aphids, leafhoppers, beetles, mites, thrips, and scale insects. Japanese Beetles enjoy the foliage, and can cause significant damage. The leaves may also be attacked by leaf galls. Powdery mildew may also occur. The riverbank grape may become weedy and aggressive in full sun which results in the dense foliage that can smother other plants. It is more controlled in shadier areas. 

VIDEO created by Grant L. Thompson for “Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines for Landscaping” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Horticulture at Iowa State University.