Ampelopsis cordata facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Ampelopsis cordata
Scientific classification
Genus:	Ampelopsis
Species:	cordata
Synonyms
Vitis indivisa Willd. Vitis cordata Dum.-Cours. Cissus indivisa Desmoul. Cissus ampelopsis Pers. Ampelopsis cordifolia Rafin.

Ampelopsis cordata, often called Raccoon-grape or Heartleaf Peppervine, is a type of vine. It is known for its heart-shaped leaves and small, grape-like berries. This plant is native to many parts of the United States. It can often be found growing in forests and along riverbanks.

What is Raccoon-grape?

Raccoon-grape is a woody vine that climbs on other plants or structures. It belongs to the grape family (Vitaceae). The plant gets its common name, Raccoon-grape, because raccoons and other wildlife enjoy eating its fruit.

How Does It Grow?

This vine can grow quite long, sometimes reaching lengths of 20 feet or more. It uses special structures called tendrils to grab onto things and climb. The tendrils wrap around branches or fences, helping the vine reach sunlight.

What Does It Look Like?

Raccoon-grape has bright green leaves that are shaped like a heart. These leaves can be quite large. In the summer, the plant produces small, greenish flowers. Later, these flowers turn into berries. The berries start green, then become pink or red, and finally turn dark blue or black when they are ripe.

Where Does Raccoon-grape Live?

This vine is found across a large area of the central and eastern United States. It prefers moist soils and sunny or partly shady spots. You might see it growing in forests, along the edges of fields, or near streams and rivers.

States Where It Grows

Raccoon-grape is common in many U.S. states, including:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• Missouri
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• Nebraska
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia
• West Virginia

Why is Raccoon-grape Important?

Raccoon-grape plays a role in its natural environment. Its berries provide food for many animals, especially birds and mammals like raccoons. The dense growth of the vine can also offer shelter for small creatures.

Wildlife Food Source

The berries of Ampelopsis cordata are an important food source. They ripen in late summer and fall. This makes them available when other food might be scarce. Many different types of birds, including robins and mockingbirds, eat the berries. Mammals like raccoons, foxes, and opossums also enjoy them.

Habitat and Shelter

The thick vines and leaves of Raccoon-grape can create good hiding spots. Small birds and insects might use the vine for shelter. It can also help stabilize soil on slopes, preventing erosion.