The Differences Between Scuppernong & Muscadine

Scuppernong and muscadine are both varieties of edible grapes of the same genus and species, Vitis rotundifolia. Both scuppernongs and muscadines are grown in warm climates and have similar features regarding foliage and fruit. They share the same cultivation requirements and the names are sometimes used interchangeably.

Muscadine is a broad category of grapes that includes many varieties of grapes, including scuppernong. The fruit of both the scuppernong and muscadine are sweet, thick-walled berries with several large seeds. They are both used as table grapes and for wine, juice, and jelly making. Muscadines (including scuppernongs) are woody fruiting vines with round scalloped leaves. The fruit grows in loose clusters with fewer grapes per cluster than are seen in the many western and European varieties.

Muscadines (including scuppernongs) are grown in the warmer, humid climates found in the southeastern US and on the western coast. They do not thrive in regions where temperatures are frequently below 10° F. They require well-drained fertile soil, plenty of water and sunshine. Since not all muscadines are self-fertile, knowing the specifics of your cultivar is important when planting these grapes to ensure optimal fruit production.

The scuppernong is bronze-colored when fully ripe. Muscadines may be pale greenish-bronze through bronze, pink, red, purple and almost black. Both are high in oxygen radical absorbance capacity (strong antioxidating ability).