Family: Vitaceae
Author: Michx.
Bibliography: Fl. Bor.-Amer. 1: 159 (1803)
Year: 1803
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Ampelopsis
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. & E. U.S.A. to Mexico
Description
Heart-leaf ampelopsis, scientifically known as Ampelopsis cordata, is a noteworthy species belonging to the Vitaceae family. First described by the eminent botanist Michaux in “Flora Boreali-Americana” in 1803, this plant has captured the interest of botanists and horticulturists alike due to its distinctive characteristics and widespread geographic presence.
Native to the central and eastern regions of the United States, extending as far south as Mexico, heart-leaf ampelopsis thrives in a variety of habitats, showcasing its adaptability and resilience. The plant is easily identifiable by its heart-shaped leaves, which have given rise to its common name. These leaves are generally smooth with a glossy surface, making the plant an appealing addition to gardens and natural landscapes.
Heart-leaf ampelopsis exhibits typical climbing behavior, utilizing tendrils to secure itself to nearby structures, be they natural or man-made. This climbing tendency makes the plant ideal for covering trellises, arbors, and walls, adding a lush, green aesthetic to vertical spaces. During the blooming season, the plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are followed by clusters of berries, which transition from green to shades of blue or black as they mature. These berries not only add visual interest but also serve as a food source for various bird species, thereby supporting local wildlife.
In addition to its ornamental value, Ampelopsis cordata contributes to the ecological diversity of its habitat. It plays a role in stabilizing soil and providing cover for small animals and insects. Gardeners and ecologists alike appreciate the plant for its fast growth and low maintenance requirements, which make it a practical choice for naturalizing areas and combatting soil erosion.
Despite its many positive attributes, heart-leaf ampelopsis can be somewhat vigorous in its growth, necessitating occasional pruning to keep it in check. However, with proper care and management, it rewards its caretakers with robust growth and an enduring green presence.
In summary, heart-leaf ampelopsis (Ampelopsis cordata) is a versatile and attractive plant species characterized by its heart-shaped leaves, climbing habit, and ecological benefits. Endemic to a wide range stretching from the central and eastern United States to Mexico, it continues to be a plant of interest for both its aesthetic qualities and its role in sustaining local ecosystems.
Common Names
Eng: false grape, heart-leaf ampelopsis, heart-leaf peppervine, heartleaf ampelopsis, heartleaf peppervine, raccoon-grape
En: Heart-leaf ampelopsis, Heart-leaf peppervine, False grape, Raccoon-grape, Heartleaf peppervine, Muscatel, Heartleaf ampelopsis
Synonyms
- Cissus indivisa (Des Moul. ex S.Watson)
- Cissus ampelopsis (Pers.)
- Vitis indivisa (Willd.)
- Ampelopsis cordifolia (Raf.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Delaware (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- Nebraska (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
- Tadzhikistan (introduced)
Additional Images
Fruit
Taken Oct 7, 2021 by lori law (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 16, 2021 by Taylor Sophia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 19, 2021 by Nick Kushner (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 18, 2020 by Megan Bradshaw (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 3, 2022 by Erica BeVier-Osborn (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Oct 20, 2022 by Pnut Hed (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 5, 2021 by itzayana acuña (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 2021 by Virginia Varone (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 29, 2021 by Autumnau (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 29, 2021 by Autumnau (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Sep 26, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Kristen Van Neste (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Sep 26, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 3, 2019 by c l (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 23, 2020 by paige camp (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jun 3, 2015 by EOL − Jim Varnum (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 1, 2022 by Victoria Cutter (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 22, 2022 by Charles Edwards (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 4, 2015 by EOL − James W. Beck (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 31, 2021 by Stanley Chin (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Sep 24, 2020 by Cynthia Perdue (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 24, 2020 by Cynthia Perdue (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken May 26, 2021 by Josh Murray (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 29, 2021 by Kandiace Kandiace Armstrong (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 26, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Sep 26, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3039183)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:67418-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ampelopsis cordata Michx.)