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GENERAL
Origin
:
sub-Mediterranean,
Mediterranean
Vigour
:
fast growing
Humidity
:
semi-arid, semi-
humid
Propagation :
cuttings
Maintenance :
moderate
CONDITIONS
Urban climate :
vulnerable
Dessication :
vulnerable
Stagnant water :
vulnerable
Irrigation
:
medium
Salinity/ppm :
low (1000 ppm)
Hardiness
:
-12°C
SHAPE
Type
:
climbers
Height
:
5 m-35 m
Spread
:
8 m-40 m
Foliage
:
deciduous
FLOWER
Colour
:
light green
Period
:
May - June
FRUIT
Type of fruit :
berry
Fruit size
:
2 cm
Toxicity
:
edible, fruit
Vitis vinifera is the Common Grape Vine, or in Arabic, enab. It is the basic species of vine for cul-
tivars. Sub-species are Vitis vinifera ssp. vinifera, which is used for the production of grapes, and
the Wild Grape Vitis vinifera ssp. sylvestris. Vitis is indigenous to the Mediterranean region, cen-
tral Europe and southwest Asia as far as Iran. Vitis is a climbing plant or liana which can develop
vines up to 35 metres long. The leaves are alternate, palmate and lobed. The flowers are unimpres-
sive in panicles, and greenish-yellow in colour; it is from these that the berries known as grapes
develop. Vitis grows as a native in riparian forests, plains or hill country. The soil needs to be rich
in humus, from dry to moderately moist. Irrigation should be moderate, with low salinity. Vitis
appreciates a sunny location. In Arriyadh, it is often seen on farms growing on wooden frames.
It should not be too exposed to intense sun. Certain sheltered locations on the wall of a building
or a gazebo, where it needs some framework for climbing in partial shade, will be excellent for
Vitis. Pruning is required frequently to optimise the growth and to train the plant. The fruits are
sour or sweet, depending on the sun and degree of ripeness. The plant attracts birds and bees. In
landscape design, V. vinifera can be recommended for shelter, screen, park planting and private
gardens, courtyards or containers. Fruit drop should be considered when planning a location.
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Vitis vinifera,
Vitaceae
Grape Vine,
enab