Vitaceae

Vitaceae, commonly known as the grape family, is a family of flowering plants in the order Vitales. It comprises about 14 genera and around 900 species, most of which are woody climbers or lianas. Members are typically characterized by a climbing habit that uses tendrils opposite the leaves; leaves are usually simple and palmately veined, though lobed forms occur. Flowers are small and often borne in panicles or cymes; the fruit is a berry, frequently grape-like when ripe.

The family has a nearly pantropical to temperate distribution, with centers of diversity in East Asia and the Americas. Vines are adapted to climb by tendrils and are common in forests, riparian zones, and disturbed habitats. Flowers attract various pollinators, and fleshy berries are dispersed by birds and mammals.

Key genera include Vitis, the grape vines that yield cultivated grapes and related wild species; Parthenocissus, which includes the Virginia creeper; Ampelopsis, including porcelain berries; Cissus, known as grape ivy; and Tetrastigma, notable as hosts for some parasitic plants such as Rafflesia. The taxonomy and relationships within Vitaceae are informed by both floral and fruit characteristics and molecular data.

Uses and significance center on Vitis vinifera, the primary source of wine grapes and also important for fresh fruit, juice, and dried fruit. Many Vitaceae species are cultivated as ornamentals or used in traditional medicines in various regions. Some taxa have become invasive outside their native ranges, underscoring the ecological and economic considerations associated with the family.