Black Hamburg Grape Vine from Hampton Court Palace

Vitis vinifera Schiava Grossa (from Hampton court)

• Position: full sun
• Soil: well-drained, preferably neutral to alkaline soil
• Rate of growth: fast-growing
• Flowering period: June to July
• Flower colour: tiny green flowers
• Other features: stunning autumnal foliage
• Hardiness: fully hardy

  
  This vine has been propagated from the Great Vine at Hampton Court Palace which is now the oldest and most famous grape vine in existence. It was planted by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown in 1768 when he was head gardener there and still produces about 600 pounds of black grapes each year, which are sold to visitors to the palace.

  A vigorous grape vine that grows well in a greenhouse, as well as outside against a south or south-west facing wall. It is one of the easiest grapes to grow, though only sets fruit outdoors after a long, hot summer. In a greenhouse it sets freely, producing large bunches of dark red or purple, sweet tasting grapes year after year.

• Garden care: When planting incorporate plenty of well-rotted organic matter in to the planting hole. Prune in mid-winter, cutting back to fit the available space, and again in mid-summer if necessary.