Vitis ‘Regent’ (Grape Vine)

Noted for its pretty fall colors and the quality of its wine or fresh grapes, Vitis ‘Regent’ is a deciduous climbing shrub or vine producing sweet blue-black grapes early in the season. They can be eaten fresh from the vine or used for making wine. Climbing by tendrils, ‘Regent’ features finely-shaped, fresh green leaves which turn vibrant shades of scarlet and purple in fall. Insignificant greenish-white flowers appear in early summer, followed by clusters of juicy, deep blue-black grapes. Reliable, ‘Regent’ enjoys an excellent resistance against the most significant fungal diseases which affect grapes, such as downy mildew. Originally from Germany, ‘Regent’ is a lovely hybrid variety resulting from a cross between European Vitis vinifera and American vine species.

• It usually ripens early in the season, making it perfect for Northern gardeners. The grapes make excellent wine if left on the vines long enough to boost the sugars.
• Easy to grow, this grape vine can grow up to 6-12 ft. tall and wide (1.8-3.6 m).
• Thrives in full sun in well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, including sand or clay, but good drainage is essential. Best sited in a location sheltered from winter winds (preferably a sunny south-facing slope) and well removed from frost pockets. Needs good air circulation.
• Grape vines require sturdy support for their twining stems, such as pergolas, walls, or fences. Perfect in cottage gardens or Mediterranean gardens.
• Prune as soon as the leaves fall in late fall. Never cut after mid-winter.