Vitis berlandieri

Vitis berlandieri

Vitis berlandieri is a species of grape native to the southern North America, primarily in Mexico and the southwestern United States. It is known for its resistance to certain soil diseases and its ability to thrive in limestone-rich soils, making it a valuable resource in the cultivation of grapevines.

Taxonomy

Vitis berlandieri is a member of the Vitis genus, which includes all species of grapes. It is part of the Vitaceae family, which also includes other types of vines and climbing plants. The species was first described by French botanist Paul Berlandier in the 19th century, from whom it takes its name.

Description

Vitis berlandieri is a deciduous vine that can grow up to 10 meters in height. It has simple, broad leaves and small, green flowers that bloom in the spring. The fruit is a small, round grape that ripens in the fall. The grapes are typically black or dark blue and have a thick skin.

Distribution and Habitat

Vitis berlandieri is native to the southern United States and Mexico, with a range extending from Texas to Coahuila. It is particularly well-adapted to the limestone-rich soils found in these regions, and can often be found growing in rocky outcrops and along riverbanks.

Cultivation

Vitis berlandieri is often used in the cultivation of grapevines due to its resistance to certain soil diseases, such as Phylloxera. It is commonly used as a rootstock, with other grape species grafted onto it. This allows the resulting plants to benefit from the Vitis berlandieri's resistance to disease and its ability to thrive in limestone-rich soils.

Uses

In addition to its use in viticulture, Vitis berlandieri is also used in landscaping due to its attractive foliage and its ability to cover large areas. The grapes are not typically used for wine production due to their thick skins and high seed content, but they can be eaten fresh or used to make jellies and jams.

See Also

• Vitis vinifera
• Vitis labrusca
• Vitis riparia
• Vitis rotundifolia

References

• Vitis berlandieri. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitis_berlandieri
• Vitis berlandieri. (n.d.). In USDA Plants Database. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=VIBE2
• Vitis berlandieri. (n.d.). In Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286375

External Links

• IUCN Red List - Vitis berlandieri
• Global Biodiversity Information Facility - Vitis berlandieri