Isabella Grape Vine
A fascinating hybrid between Vitis vinifera and V. labrusca, the parentage of Isabella Grape vine is still unclear, but they produce beautiful dark red grapes that can be used for winemaking and for fresh eating. They tend to make a light-bodied red wine, despite their dark skin, but still retain many of the flavors of a typical labrusca, or table grape. Once widely planted in North America, it was gradually replaced with the more popular Concord variety, but Isabella is now being sought after for its high heat resistance and ability to grow in areas with hotter summer temperatures. Hardy to zone 5.
Latin Name: Vitis Sp.
Site and Soil: Grapes like full to 1/2 day sun and well-drained soil. Grapes are drought resistant once they are established.
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile.
Hardiness: Hardy to minus 10° F.
Bearing Age: 2-3 years after planting.
Size at Maturity: 10-12 ft. in width on fence, trellis, or other support.
Taste: Rich, aromatic, acidic
Fruit Skin: Purple
Bloom Time: May
Ripening Time: Late September
Yield: 10-15 lbs.
Pests & Diseases: Repel birds with flash tape or cover plants with bird netting.
USDA Zone: 5-9