Vitis girdiana

Differing from Vitis californica largely in geographic area, Desert Grape is native to Southern California and the islands. Desert Grape has silvery foliage and attractive black fruit. The grapes are tasty for people and wildlife. Vitis girdiana is is a great bird plant, for western bluebirds, California Thrashers and other berry eating birds of summer. We have one that is espaliered against a wall here. It is easy! Use Desert Grape on a shade structures like an arbor or a pergola for a cool shady retreat in a summer garden. Desert Grape is very fast growing and heat tolerant. In southern California grows with Pluchea odorata, Salix goodingii, and Baccharis emoryi (Baccharis salicina).