Wisteria floribunda aka Japanese Wisteria

Taxonomy

Genus Wisteria Family Fabaceae Order Fabales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Wisteria floribunda, also known as Japanese wisteria (藤, fuji), is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. Native to Japan, it is a woody, deciduous twining climber that can reach a height of 9 meters (30 feet). Introduced to the United States in the 1830s, it has since become a beloved flowering garden plant and a popular subject for bonsai. The flowering habit of Japanese wisteria is particularly remarkable, with long racemes of white, pink, violet, or blue flowers that can reach up to 2 meters (7 feet) in length. These flowers emit a distinctive grape-like fragrance. However, the early flowering time of Japanese wisteria can pose challenges in temperate climates where early frosts can damage the flowers. Like its cousin, Chinese wisteria, Japanese wisteria takes several years to transition from the juvenile to the adult stage and start flowering. With its powerful clockwise-twining stems, Japanese wisteria can grow over 30 meters (98 feet) long, supported by various structures. Its foliage consists of shiny, dark-green, pinnately compound leaves with oblong leaflets. The plant also produces brown, velvety, bean-like seed pods that mature in summer and persist until winter. Japanese wisteria thrives in moist soils and full sun in USDA plant hardiness zones 5-9. It has a long lifespan, often living for over 50 years. One cultivar, Kokuryū, features scented violet flowers that hang in racemes up to 50cm long, blooming in early summer. While wisteria flowers are visually stunning and fragrant, it is important to note that the vine is fast-growing and can become aggressive, reaching lengths of over 30 feet. The blooms of wisteria only appear on new growth, and after flowering, the plant develops brown, bean-like pods that remain on the plant until winter.

Common names

Japanese Wisteria, Common Wisteria

How to care for Japanese Wisteria

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Japanese Wisteria, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Japanese Wisteria should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Japanese Wisteria loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Japanese Wisteria requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Common Wisteria will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Japanese Wisteria plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

Japanese Wisteria is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Region of origin

Japanese Wisteria’s native range is E. Asia - Japan.

More info:
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More Species in Wisteria Genus

Wisteria frutescens American Wisteria

Wisteria sinensis Chinese Wisteria

Wisteria Wisteria