Magnolia Muscadine Grapes

Muscadinia rotundifolia ‘Magnolia’

Characteristics

Culture

The Magnolia Muscadine vine is a self-fertile variety that is very productive and yields good quality, medium size bronze grapes that contain 15% sugar and has a tough skin. This muscadine vine is excellent for white wine. Plant in full sun; fruit set and production will be reduced if the vines are shaded. Note that 1 self-fertile Muscadine will pollinate up to 3 female vines.

Noteworthy Characteristics

‘Magnolia’ was released in 1962 jointly by N.C. State Univ. and the USDA. ‘Magnolia’ was released as a white pollinator for commercial plantings. It is an old cultivar that is recommended for home gardens. The small berry size of Magnolia relegates it to the juice category. The University of Georgia found it to perform similarly to Carlos Muscadine with no real advantages over Carlos. 

Problems

• Susceptible to berry rot
• As a cultivar of a native plant, it is resistant or tolerant to Pierce’s Disease (PD). If affected, PD causes marginal leaf burn but typically does not kill vines.
• Muscadine grapes are drought tolerant. Water during dry periods the first two years, then the vines can usually obtain adequate water from the soil even during dry periods.
• Muscadine grapes have a relatively high requirement for magnesium; and a shortage shows up as yellowing between the veins of older leaves. Premature fruit fall may also result. To prevent or correct magnesium deficiency, apply Epsom salts at the rate of 2 to 4 ounces for 1 and 2 year-old vines. For older vines, apply 4 to 6 ounces. Be sure to broadcast Epsom salts evenly over a 3 to 6 foot area and water it into the soil well.

Uses

The Magnolia Muscadine grape can be fresh eaten, yet it is excellent for juice and wine making.