Grapes 'Venus' (Live Plant)

These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.

Key Characteristics of Venus Grapes:

• Origin: 'Venus' is a seedless blue-black table grape cultivar (Vitis hybrid) developed by the University of Arkansas fruit breeding program. It originated from a cross between 'Alden' and NY 46000 made in 1964. The selection was made in 1967 and tested as Ark. 1196 before being released in 1977. The primary objective of the Arkansas program was to develop high-quality table grapes adapted to the soils and climate of the region.  
• Patent Status: 'Venus' Grape was released in 1977 by a public agricultural research institution. According to multiple sources, 'Venus' is not patented and is considered a public domain variety.  

Key Characteristics:

• Berry Production: Produces medium to large-sized, round, blue-black seedless grapes in large, tight clusters. The berries have a sweet flavor with a noticeable "foxy" or muscat-like aroma and flavor characteristic of Vitis labrusca heritage. The skin is of medium thickness, described as similar to many eastern table grapes, and adheres well to the juicy pulp. 'Venus' is known for its early ripening and resistance to cracking.  
• Ripening Time: 'Venus' is an early-ripening grape, typically maturing 7-10 days earlier than 'Fredonia', around mid to late July in Arkansas.
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'Venus' vines are vigorous and productive. They are well-suited to be grown on their own roots and do not typically require grafting. The vines have large leaves and a growth habit typical of grapevines, requiring support such as a trellis or arbor.  
• Flowers: Grapevines produce small, greenish-white, fragrant flowers borne in clusters. 'Venus' is self-pollinating.  
• Hardiness: 'Venus' is generally considered hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 9, with some variability in colder regions. It has shown favorable performance in trials across various states.
• Pollination: 'Venus' is self-pollinating and will set fruit without the need for cross-pollination.  
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight) for optimal growth and fruit production.
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained soil and has shown good performance in the soils of Arkansas.  
  • Watering: Requires adequate moisture, especially during fruit development.  
  • Pruning: Requires annual pruning during the dormant season to manage growth and maximize fruit yield.  
• Uses: Primarily used as a fresh-eating table grape due to its early ripening, seedlessness, and flavor. It is also suitable for making juice and potentially for wine, although its labrusca character might influence the wine style.  
• Wildlife Value: Grapevines provide cover, and the fruit is a food source for birds and other wildlife.  
• Ornamental Value: Grapevines can add ornamental value with their foliage and fruit clusters, especially when trained on structures.  
• Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Venus' is reported to have moderate resistance to black rot and anthracnose.