ornamental grape vine

Why Choose Ornamental Grape Vine?

An ornamental grape vine is not just a lush screen or a living curtain for fences and arbors—it’s a real standout in the garden. Vitis species are hardy, easy to train, and reward gardeners with beautiful displays in every season. Many varieties do not produce fruit suitable for eating, but their eye-catching leaves and vigorous climbing habit create natural privacy, wind protection, and shade.

Grape vines are adaptable to a wide range of garden settings, thriving best in well-drained soil and full sun to part shade. Their architectural growth means they suit everything from cottage gardens to contemporary spaces.

Popular Ornamental Grape Vine Varieties

Explore the diversity within the Vitis genus by considering a few exceptional varieties:

• Vitis vinifera purpurea: Famed for its deep purple foliage, ‘Purpurea’ brings rich colour throughout the warmer months and transitions to fiery red tones in autumn.

• Vitis amurensis Alicante Bouchet: This robust ornamental grape vine is known for its striking autumn shades and strong tolerance to cold conditions, making it ideal for New Zealand’s variable climate.

• Vitis vinifera (Ornamental Grape Vine): The classic species, with attractive lobed leaves and impressive seasonal colour changes, it’s an excellent choice for garden walls, arbours, or sprawling along a pergola.

• Vitis Coignetiae (Crimson Glory Vine): Renowned for its massive heart-shaped leaves that light up the garden with scarlet and crimson in autumn, this vigorous vine provides a dramatic backdrop for any landscape.

Growing and Caring for Ornamental Grape Vines

Ornamental grape vines thrive with a little initial support and regular pruning. Train their stems along wires or trellises for lush vertical growth or let them ramble informally in larger gardens. In New Zealand’s climate, Vitis vines are generally low maintenance—simply provide consistent moisture during the establishment period and prune in winter to shape and control growth.

Mulching and the application of a slow-release fertiliser in spring can encourage healthy, dense foliage. With time, your ornamental grape vine will reward you with dense shade, stunning seasonal colour, and enduring architectural flair.

Transform Your Garden with Vitis

There’s an ornamental grape vine to suit every landscape style and size, from container-grown deck features to sprawling garden walls. Explore the full range including the bold Vitis vinifera purpurea, cold-hardy Vitis amurensis Alicante Bouchet, and the showstopping Vitis Coignetiae (Crimson Glory Vine) to elevate your outdoor spaces.

Discover how the Vitis plant genus can bring colour and life to your New Zealand garden—ornamental grape vines are a timeless and rewarding choice for any gardener passionate about foliage, form, and year-round interest.