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Post date: Aug 6, 2010 2:38:16 PM
Wild grapes are ripe
Wild grapes are ripe
Last update: August 6, 2010 - 1:52 AM
At this time and through September, ripe wild grapes offer hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts a refreshing snack. These grapes are eaten by more than 60 species of birds including wood ducks, ruffed grouse and northern cardinals, plus such mammals as opossums, raccoons and black bears. The wild grape serves as a very important wildlife food.
The wild grape, also called frost grape or riverbank grape, is found throughout Minnesota. It is a vigorous, woody climber with forked tendrils. It's native on riverbanks and in moist, rich woodlands, often climbing into tall trees. The leaves are large, heart-shaped, usually three-lobed and have coarse teeth.
The natural range of the wild grape is from Montana to Nova Scotia, south to Texas and Tennessee. It is frequently planted to cover fences and arbors, or for fruits that are prized for jellies.
The fruits are in dense bunches of berries, each about 3/8-inch in diameter and dark purplish-blue in color. In addition to fresh eating and jelly making, the berries can be used to make juice, preserves, pie and wine.
JIM GILBERT
Star Tribune
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