Arizona grape facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Arizona grape |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Arizona grape in Icebox Canyon, Spring Mountains, southern Nevada | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Vitis
|
| Species: |
arizonica
|
| Synonyms | |
|
|
The Arizona grape (scientific name: Vitis arizonica) is a type of wild grape found in North America. It's a deciduous vine, which means it loses its leaves in the fall. People also call it the canyon grape or uva del monte.
Contents
What's in a Name?
The name Vitis comes from Latin and means 'vine.' The second part, arizonica, tells us that this grape is 'from Arizona.'
Where Does It Grow?
The Arizona grape grows in many places across North America. You can find it in parts of the United States like California (Inyo County), Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, western Texas, and southern Utah. It also grows in Mexico, in states such as Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, and Tamaulipas. In Arizona, you can find this grape in almost every county.
How Does It Look?
The Vine
The Arizona grape is a woody vine. Its stems usually grow about 2 to 6 meters (6 to 20 feet) long. When the young branches first appear, they are very fuzzy. As they get older, they lose this fuzz, and their bark starts to peel off.
Leaves
The leaves of the Arizona grape fall off in winter. They are shaped like a wide heart and are about 3 to 10 centimeters (1 to 4 inches) long and wide. Their edges are unevenly toothed, and sometimes they have three shallow lobes. The leaves feel soft and fuzzy, like cotton.
Flowers
The flowers grow in loose, branched clusters that are 2 to 10 centimeters (1 to 4 inches) long. These clusters appear opposite the leaves. The flowers themselves are tiny and have five white petals.
Fruits
The fruits are small, edible grapes. They are about 8 to 10 millimeters (1/3 to 3/8 inch) thick. When they are young, they are green. As they ripen, they turn a deep purple or black color. These grapes grow in clusters on red stems. While you can eat them, some might taste a bit bitter.
How Is It Used?
The Arizona grape has several uses.
- For Plants: Scientists have used the Arizona grape to help create new types of grapevines. These new vines are stronger and can resist a plant disease called Pierce's Disease.
- For Food: The grapes are edible, but their taste can vary. Some plants produce sweet grapes, while others might be bitter. People can use them to make wine or jams. However, they are mostly eaten by wild animals.
Gallery
- Vitis arizonica
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
.jpg)
