Grapes, Blue, Seedless 'Jupiter' (Live Plant)

Key Characteristics

• Origin: 'Jupiter' is a seedless blue grape cultivar developed at the University of Arkansas by James N. Moore and John R. Clark. It was released in 1998. It is a complex hybrid resulting from a cross between 'Arkansas 1258' (a complex seedless hybrid) and 'Himrod' (a white seedless grape).
• Patent Status: 'Jupiter' Seedless Blue Grape was protected by U.S. Plant Patent PP13,309, held by University of Arkansas at Fayetteville until it expired on 2019-01-11. This cultivar is now considered to be in the public domain and there are no restrictions on its asexual reproduction, propagation, or sale based on patent law.
• Berry Production: Produces medium-sized, round to slightly oval, blue-black seedless berries with a sweet, pleasant flavor and a crisp texture. The berries are borne in medium to large, well-filled clusters. It is known for its good productivity and reliable yields. The seedlessness is a significant characteristic.
• Ripening Time: 'Jupiter' is an early to mid-season ripening seedless grape. In the United States, it typically ripens in late July to early August, depending on the growing region and climate. It ripens around the same time as 'Reliance' and a little after 'Venus'.
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'Jupiter' is a vigorous vine with good growth habit. It requires a trellis or other support system for proper growth and fruit production. It exhibits good disease resistance, which is a desirable trait.
• Flowers: Produces typical small, greenish-white grape flowers in the late spring. It has perfect flowers, although its seedlessness is a key feature.
• Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA Zones 6 through 8. It offers good winter hardiness for a seedless grape.
• Pollination: 'Jupiter' is seedless and therefore does not rely on pollination for fruit development in the typical sense. While it has perfect flowers, the ovules do not develop into hard seeds. Planting near other grape varieties for pollination will not result in seeded 'Jupiter' grapes.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth, fruit development, and sugar accumulation.
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained soil that is moderately fertile. It can adapt to a range of soil types but good drainage is crucial. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is preferred.
  • Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment and fruit development. Mature vines benefit from adequate water, particularly during dry periods.
  • Fertilizing: Generally requires moderate fertilization. Soil testing can help determine specific nutrient needs. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
  • Pruning: Requires annual pruning during the dormant season to establish the fruiting wood for the upcoming year and manage vine vigor. Various training systems can be used.
• Uses: Primarily used as a fresh eating grape due to its appealing blue color, sweet flavor, crisp texture, and seedlessness. It is also suitable for making raisins and may have some potential for juice production.
• Wildlife Value: Grape flowers attract some pollinators. The ripe grapes are a food source for birds and other wildlife.
• Ornamental Value: Grapevines can provide ornamental value with their foliage and fruit clusters when trained on supports.
• Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Jupiter' exhibits good resistance to several common grape diseases, including powdery mildew, downy mildew, and black rot, which is a significant advantage. It also shows some resistance to grape berry moth.