Vitaceae is the plant family containing
Vitis vinifera, the
European wine grape, and various other similar plants. There are actually 12 genera and 700 species in this family. Vitaceae is charactarized by all members being
vines with
tendrils opposite the leaf, alternately-placed leaves, and '
berry' type fruits (technically,
grapes are berries).
The economic and cultural value of Vitis vinifera is apparent. Other species of Vitis are often used as rootstocks to give plants immunity to phyloxera, and these species often also offer important food and shelter for wildlife. Another genus in the family, Parthenocissus, is a common landscaping vine, one found at many 'ivy league' schools.