The classic seedless white grape grown for fresh eating, sultanas and drying, with sweet pale-green fruit on a vigorous vine. Self-fertile and deciduous, it needs a sunny wall, fence or pergola and winter pruning.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 6 m H × 3 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Sultana
Botanically, Vitis vinifera 'Thompson Seedless' is a fast-growing climber in the Vitaceae family. It reaches around 6 m tall and 3 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage. Cream green flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Sultana
Sultana suits warm-temperate, Mediterranean and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Sultana does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Sultana does best with regular, moderate watering. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Sultana after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Once established, it is moderate maintenance.
Using Sultana in the garden
Sultana earns its place for edible harvests and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Sultana with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Buying Sultana
Plant Sale lists Sultana as bare-root stock, advanced specimens and potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
