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Wisteria frutescens (American wisteria)

Wisteria frutescens Photo/Illustration: Erica Glasener


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Wisteria frutescens wis-TEER-ee-ah frew-TES-senz Common Name: American wisteria Genus: Wisteria
This North American native vine boasts abundant clusters of pale lilac-purple flowers. Though it is not as fragrant as Asian wisterias, it is easier to control because it doesn't send out long root suckers. American wisteria blooms later, from June to August, so its blossoms are less prone to being killed by a late frost. It can grow to 30 feet or more when trained to climb over an arbor, pergola, or wall. It can also be trained into a small tree or standard. 'Nivea' is a white-flowered form.
 Care: Provide well-drained soil in full sun. It may take a plant several years to become established enough to flower. Restricting its roots may encourage better blooming. American wisteria grows as far south as Florida. It blooms on current season's growth, and should be pruned soon after blooming and then again in the fall.
 Problems: Dieback, crown gall, leaf spots, virus diseases, Japanese beetles, aphids, leaf miners, scale insects, and mealybugs.
Height Over 30 ft.
Spread Over 30 ft.
Growth Pace Fast Grower
Light Full Sun Only
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Fragrant Flowers; Native; Showy Flowers; Showy Foliage
Bloom Time Summer
Flower Color Purple/ Lavender Flower; White Flower
Uses Trellis
Style Cottage Garden, Formal Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest
Type Vines

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