California Grape (Vitis californica)

Family: Vitaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Vitis californica is a deciduous Climber growing to 9 m (29ft 6in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasant flavour. — Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for winter use.; It can also be made into jellies, pies etc.; The fruit is quite juicy but is very small.; The fruit is about 8mm in diameter, but it has a thin flesh and is of little value even in America for its fruit.

Habitat & North American Range

Stream banks and canyons below 1200 metres. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)