Riverbank Grape, Vitis Riparia, (Cold Hardy) Vine 20 Seeds Hardy, Adaptable, Easy to Grow, Fragrant Flowering Vine, Edible Fruits, Ornamental Fruit, Fall Color, Attracts Birds, Wildlife Food, Cold Tolerant QTY: 20 SEEDS Riverbank Grape is a North American grape and one of the hardiest species in the world surviving temperatures as low as minus -40F. It is a stunning vigorous climbing vine, up to 50 feet, with variable 3 to 7 inch leaves (rounded or deeply lobed) displaying beautiful gold and red autumn colors. It usually climbs trees, shrubs or fence rows, but will rise only 1/2-2 feet above the ground while sprawling in open areas. The blooming period occurs during the late spring and lasts about 2 to 3 weeks. The small greenish-white or greenish-yellow flowers have 5 tiny petals, and a fragrant musky scent. The flowers are replaced by 1/4 to 1/2 inch black fruit in clusters to 6 inches that develop during the summer. The grapes are sweetly acidic and have a lovely flavor when allowed to fully ripen on the vine, thus excellent for winemaking and jellies. Highly valued by wildlife and perfect for naturalizing woodland areas or along fences and of course as root stock. This species is used extensively as a rootstock in today's European wineries. Those who enjoy a glass of vino fino owe a debt of gratitude to humble Vitis riparia . Even today Vitis vinifera vines are propagated on Vitis riparia rootstock to control phylloxera a devastating disease that will kill or severely harm own root Vitis vinifera. So if you want to grow your own grapes for wine or preserves, it is best to use this species as a rootstock. Other Names: Riverbank Grape, Frost Grape