An ornamental grape is a great climber to go over a pergola or fence. It is the same species as the wine making grape but the ornamental variety aborts its fruit so that it doesn’t make a mess.
Details
Common name: Ornamental grape.
Botanic name: Vitis vinifera. The genus name Vitis is the Latin word for grapevine.
Climate: Will grow in most of Australia except the tropical north and subtropical coastal northern NSW and Queensland.
Good points:
A quick growing, spreading deciduous climber which will reach about 7-10m (20-30′).
New growth is green and slightly downy which matures to deep green in summer and gives beautiful autumn colour from orange, red through to purple.
True grape-leaf shape to foliage.
Ornamental fruit attracts birds.
Downside:
It drops its leaves in autumn.
Can get fungal leaf diseases in humid coastal climates.
Uses:
Screening plant over a fence
Climber over a pergola or arch providing shade in summer and sun in winter
Works well as a backdrop
Likes:
Full sun and well-drained soil
Occasional pruning if required in winter to remove twiggy growth.
Availability
Ornamental grapevines are available from nurseries throughout Australia within the best climate zone. A 17.5cm (7″) pot costs around $10.90 and a 20cm (8″) pot costs around $13.90.
