Vitis arizonica is a sprawling woody vine that bears dark green, ovate leaves with palmate venation. The leaves measure up to four inches in length and have three to five lobes. Its inconspicuous greenish flowers bloom in spring to early summer with staminate (male) and pistillate (female) flowers on separate plants (1,2,6). The vine can reach 10 to 20 feet wide, and climbs by tendrils (6). 

Canyon grape is native to Arizona, Texas, Utah and northern Mexico, growing between elevations of 2000 and 7500 feet (2). It grows in a variety of habitats, including riparian zones and shady canyons, where it is often found clambering over rocks, shrubs and trees (1,3). 

V. arizonica can make a good addition to any garden. It does well in a variety of soils, especially if they are well drained. It can be propagated by seed, although seed germination is not consistent (2). The vine can also be propagated by cuttings or by layering (2,4) It may require substantial water, especially during the summer (6). Wintertime, when the plant goes dormant and loses it leaves, is the best time for pruning as the plant may bleed if pruned during the growing season (4). Canyon grape is a semi-hardy plant, tolerating temperatures as low as 25^oF, and can be grown in either full sun or partial shade (6)

As a climbing or trellised plant, canyon grape can be used as a screen or grown on shade structures (6). The fruit is edible, although it is small and tart and its leathery skin does not slip from the pulp like other grapes do (3). The fruit can be used to make jellies, sauces, and juices, or it can be fermented into wine (1,2). Leaves can be eaten and are sometimes used to wrap foods (5). Pueblo Indians and other tribes cultivated the plant and consumed the fruit fresh and dried. Native Americans and early European explorers chewed the leaves to alleviate thirst (2).  

The grapes are eaten by a variety of wild animals, including birds, raccoons, and coyotes (1,2,5). Birds often use the plant for nesting sites or for nesting materials (2). V. arizonica is host to a species of seed beetle (Amblycerus vitis) that lays its eggs on the fruit. Once hatched, the larvae burrow into the fruit and eat the contents of a seed, where they remain until they pupate and emerge. The relationship between the Arizona grape and this beetle is so unique that the beetle only inhabits river canyons in Arizona (3).