Muscadine (Fruit)

Muscadines are important plants for improving wildlife habitat by providing cover, browse, and fruit for a wide variety of animals. Humans and animals alike relish the wild grapes produced by this native fruiting vine. They have a very distinctive and pungent flavor and I find the fresh skins to be tough enough to rub blisters on the roof of my mouth if I eat too many of them raw. Muscadines are not only eaten fresh, but also are used in making wine, juice, and - my favorite - an excellent jelly.