Culture
Grow in humusy, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun. Site this vine in a protected location and mulch roots in the St. Louis area where it may not be reliably winter hardy.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Vitis ficifolia var. lobata is a small, woody, deciduous, twining vine of the grape family that is grown for ornamental purposes. Typically reaches 10' in length. Features small, deeply lobed (3-5 lobes), glossy green leaves which are whitish below. Foliage acquires rich red hues in autumn. Insignificant whitish flowers in late spring give way to clusters of dark purple grapes with glaucous bloom. Fruit is visually attractive but basically inedible.
Genus name is the Latin name for the old world vineyard grape (Vitis vinifera).
Specific epithet means with leaves like fig.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Mildew can be troublesome in humid climates.
Uses
Trellis, arbor, fence. Grow through shrubs or into small trees.