Claret Cloak Vine Vitis Claret Cloak = 'Frovit'

Names

• Family

  Vitaceae.

• Synonyms

  Claret Cloak Vine, Frovit Grape Vine, Ornamental Grape Vine.

• Common names

  Vitis 'Frovit'

Toxicity

• To humans

  The 'Frovit' grape vine, which is a variety of Vitis, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The fruits, or grapes, are edible and commonly consumed. However, other parts of the grape vine, such as the leaves and stems, are not typically eaten and may cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities. It is important to note that the seeds of grapes can contain small amounts of substances which could be harmful in large amounts, but the risk of poisoning from casual consumption is very low. Ingesting large quantities of grapevine parts other than the fruit may lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

• To pets

  The 'Frovit' grape vine is toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats. The toxicity primarily relates to the grapes themselves, which can cause severe kidney damage in dogs and possibly in cats, although their sensitivity is less well-documented. Symptoms of grape poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, and signs of kidney failure such as decreased urination, weakness, and increased thirst. In some cases, ingestion of grapes can be fatal, so immediate veterinary care is crucial if a pet is known or suspected to have eaten any part of a grape vine. The mechanism behind the toxicity is not well understood, and there is considerable variability in individual animals' reactions, with some animals exhibiting symptoms after ingesting only a small number of grapes.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Height

  10 feet (3 meters)

• Spread

  10 feet (3 meters)

• Plant type

  Climber

• Hardiness zones

  7

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Vitis 'Frovit', commonly known as the Claret Cloak grape vine, offers aesthetic appeal with its attractive foliage and often vibrant autumn colors.
• Shade Provision: This vine has the capability to create shaded areas when grown over pergolas or trellises, making it useful for creating cooler, protected spaces in gardens.
• Erosion Control: By establishing a strong root system, Claret Cloak can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or banks.
• Habitat Creation: The vine provides shelter and food for various bird species, promoting biodiversity within the garden ecosystem.
• Privacy Screen: When grown on fences or other support structures, Claret Cloak can serve as a green privacy barrier.
• Food Production: While not primarily grown for its fruit, Claret Cloak may produce grapes that can be used in making jellies, juice, or even wine.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Crafting material: The flexible, woody vines can be used for wickerwork, creating items such as baskets and garden trellises.
• Natural dye: The leaves and skins of the fruit can be boiled down to create natural dyes for fabrics and yarns.
• Edible creations: The grape leaves are edible and can be used in culinary dishes like dolmas or as a natural wrap for cheeses and appetizers.
• Garden structure: The vigorous nature of the vine allows it to be trained on arbors and pergolas, providing shade and a lush green aesthetic.
• Erosion control: The extensive root system of the vine helps stabilize soil on slopes and can be used in landscape areas prone to erosion.
• Living screen: When planted in rows or on trellises, the vine can create a dense, leafy screen for privacy in a garden or yard.
• Biofuel source: The plant material, particularly pruned vines and excess leaves, can be converted into biofuels as a renewable energy source.
• Wildlife habitat: The vines provide shelter and nesting sites for various birds, while the grapes serve as a food source for wildlife.
• Sensory gardens: The leaves and the fruits add texture and olfactory elements to sensory gardens designed for therapeutic and educational purposes.
• Seasonal decoration: The cut vines can be used to create decorative wreaths and garlands during the holiday season.

Feng Shui

The plant Vitis is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The plant Vitis is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Transformation - The 'Frovit' grapevine, like all grapevines, goes through a significant transformation from bud to fruit, symbolizing change and development.
• Abundance - With their tendency to produce plentiful fruit, grapevines are often associated with abundance and fertility.
• Vitality - The vigor with which the 'Frovit' grapevine grows reflects health, life, and vitality.
• Prosperity - In many cultures, grapevines are a sign of prosperity, due to the value of grapes in commerce, especially in winemaking.
• Intoxication - As grapes are a primary ingredient in wine, grapevines can symbolize the duality of intoxication, both literal and metaphorical, including spiritual bliss or a loss of self-control.
• Rebirth - The perennial nature of the grapevine, dying back and then reviving each year, can symbolize rebirth and renewal.