What are scuppernong grapes?

Scuppernong grapes (vitis rotundifolia) are round, thick-skinned, greenish or golden-bronze grapes that grow up to 50 percent larger than average white grapes. Discovered along the Scuppernong River in North Carolina over 400 years ago, the Scuppernong grape was named the official state fruit of North Carolina in 2001.

Hardy in USDA plant zones 5a to 9b, Scuppernong grapes thrive in full or partial sun and attract a wealth of bees, birds and butterflies. Though it can take two to three years for vines to produce fruit, the vines, which have a rapid, almost invasive, growth rate, must be trained and regularly pruned to keep them under control.