The Vitaceae family, or grape family, includes over 750 species across 14 genera,
primarily in tropical and warm temperate regions. These climbing plants are
identified by swollen leaf nodes and tendrils. Tiny flowers clustered opposite the
leaves yield the family’s most famous product grapes. Enjoyed fresh, dried, or
juiced, grapes are a global culinary staple. While some Vitaceae species have
medicinal uses, caution is advised as some contain toxins. Nutritionally, grapes
are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, while other family members have limited
nutritional value (Wen 2007).
