Muscadine Grape

Vitis rotundifolia

Illustration: Muscadine grape (Vitis rotundifolia)

Identification: Vigorous vine with simple (unforked) tendrils and glossy round leaves; large bronze or dark grapes that drop singly when ripe (not in tight clusters).

Dangerous look-alikes: Same moonseed caution as wild grape: confirm tendrils present and multiple round seeds per fruit.

Edible parts: Ripe grapes.

Season and habitat: Late summer–fall. Woods, riverbanks, hammocks.

Preparation: Thick-skinned and musky — superb jelly, juice, and wine. Hulls are edible but tough; many spit them.