Vitis vinifera ?Chardonnay

Chardonnay Grape

Vitis vinifera ‘Chardonnay’ is a vigorous, deciduous fruiting vine prized for its green to golden grapes used in white wine production. Leaves emerge fresh green in spring, form a dense canopy through summer, and often develop yellow tones in fall, while small, greenish flowers in late spring give way to clusters of round grapes that ripen from green to golden in late summer to early fall. Its climbing habit makes it ideal for trellises, arbors, and edible landscapes.

Type: Deciduous fruiting vine

Mature Size:
Width: 6–10 ft (spread on support)
Height: 8–12 ft (or longer with support)
(10-year size: dependent on pruning and support)

USDA Zones: 6a–9b
Form: Climbing, trailing vine; trained on trellis or arbor
Light: Full sun (essential for fruit production)
Soil: Well-drained soils; prefers loamy, slightly acidic to neutral soils
Water: Moderate; consistent moisture for best fruit

Wildlife: Attracts bees (flowers) and birds (fruit)


Features & Landscape Uses


Produces classic white wine grapes



Vigorous vine for trellises, arbors, and fences



Suitable for edible landscapes or home vineyards



Attractive foliage and seasonal interest




Care
Requires regular pruning, typically in late winter, to maintain productivity and structure. Train on a strong support system such as a trellis or arbor. Needs full sun and good air circulation to reduce disease risk. Monitor for mildew, insects, and other common grape issues. Protect ripening fruit from birds.

Plant type

Fruit Tree

Height

8-12'

Width

6-10'

Hardiness zones

6–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Summer

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees, Birds

Soil

Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Fruit, Trellis

Shape

Climbing

Bark

Exfoliating

Fruit

Yes

Drought tolerant

No