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Japanese wisteria

Wisteria floribunda

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Wisteria floribunda

Dramatic clusters of blue-violet to red-violet flowers with an intoxicating fragrance grace this vigorous twining climber. Its springtime cascading flower clusters can grow to 3 feet long or more in some cultivars. Blooms typically open first at the base and last at the tip of each cluster. Trunk diameter can reach 7 to 8 inches after 20 years, and the plant can climb to 35 or more feet in height, though its size is easily controlled by pruning.

CareProvide rich, well-drained soil with plenty of space. Wisteria needs strong support and can be trained as a tree, vertically on a wall or arbor, or horizontally on the ground. Growth can be restricted to a few limbs or allowed to spread vigorously to completely cover a wall. Early blooms can be damaged by freezing temperatures. Prune as needed when growth is active, but ideally in early, mid, and late summer. Can be difficult to get to bloom.

PropagationCan be propagated by seeds or cuttings, but propagating by seeds is not practical for most home gardeners.

ProblemsDieback, crown gall, leaf spots, viral diseases, Japanese beetles, aphids, leaf miners, scale insects, and mealybugs

  • Genus : Wisteria
  • Plant Height : 15 to 30 feet
  • Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds, Fragrant Flowers, Showy Foliage
  • Growth Rate : Fast
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
  • Plant Type : Vines

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