Vitis aestivalis

This treatment is for V. aestivalis is in a narrow sense with varieties aestivalis and bicolor. Formerly recognized as a variety under V. aestivalis, Vitis lincecumii is elevated and recognized as distinct species and Vitis rufotomentosa is recognized as distinct from Vitis aestivalis (Weakley et al. 2023). While Vitis aestivalis is distinct at the species level, the distinctiveness of its varieties are still being investigated (Talavera et al. 2023). Flora of North America (2016) noted that "the boundaries of the varieties are highly inconsistent and it is often difficult to apply the varietal concepts in the field." Vitis aestivalis var. argentifolia is considered a synonym of var. bicolor (Moore 1991).

Vitis aestivalis, the summer grape, is a woody vine that occurs throughout much of eastern North America in a variety of habitats. While parts of its range have been impacted by development, the summer grape is able to occupy disturbed habitats. Vitis aestivalis is considered Secure due to its broad range, abundance, and ability to rebound after disturbance.

Vitis aestivalis occurs throughout much of eastern North America, from Ontario, Canada south to Florida, United States, extending west to Texas and Nebraska (Flora of North America 2016).

Although the number of occurrences has not been calculated, there are over 4,700 herbarium specimens collected from throughout the native range of Vitis aestivalis. About 700 specimens have been collected within the last 30 years (GBIF 2022).

Much of eastern North America's forested habitats have, and continue to be, impacted by development. While this has likely impacted populations of V. aestivalis, the species is able to reestablish after disturbance. Vitis aestivalis is also likely threatened by habitat loss, invasive species, and other widespread threats; however, declines to this species are not well documented.