Grape family
Description
A family of mainly climbers and some shrubs, occurring in the tropics and subtropics (Vitaceae 1).
The alternate leaves are simple, palmate or pinnate, often with stipules. The small regular flowers are borne in racemes opposite a leaf, they are unisexual or bisexual. There are 4 or 5 fused sepals, and 4 or 5 free petals, often fused at the top and shed when the flower opens. Stamens as many as the petals. The ovary is superior. The fruit is a berry.
Use
The family is of great economic importance because of the grape, which is the source of wine.
Described species
Vitis vinifera, vine and grapes