Japanese wisteria (Wisteria floribunda)

Japanese wisteria

Japanese wisteria (*Wisteria floribunda*) is a vigorous climber and requires a sturdy structure to support its weight when mature. In spring, it produces hanging clusters of fragrant, purple, pea-like flowers. These are followed by bean-like pods which burst open with a loud “pop” to disperse their seeds. Its beauty ensures it remains popular, but it is invasive and needs strict control.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese wisteria (Wisteria floribunda)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Vine

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

Green

Fruit Color

Pink, Purple, Blue, White, Violet

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Japanese wisteria

Distribution of Japanese wisteria

Distribution Map

Japanese wisteria is indigenous to East Asia and has been introduced to various regions across temperate zones in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Cultivated for its ornamental value, japanese wisteria has adapted to a broad range of areas beyond its native habitat, often thriving in botanical gardens and as cultivated plantings in diverse climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest, disturbed areas, brush, riparian

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Welcome

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Japanese wisteria, including the following common varieties :

Japanese wisteria 'Geisha'Japanese wisteria 'Alba'Japanese wisteria 'Yae'Japanese wisteria 'Macrobotrys'Japanese wisteria 'Violacea Plena'Japanese wisteria 'Lavender Lace'Japanese wisteria 'Rosea'Japanese wisteria 'Royal Purple'Japanese wisteria 'Harlequin'Japanese wisteria 'Lawrence'Japanese wisteria 'Domino'

Toxicity

Japanese wisteria poses a severe toxicity risk to humans, cats, and dogs upon ingestion. Every part of japanese wisteria is toxic, including seeds, pods, bark, leaves, and flowers, due to lectin and wisterin. Symptoms include severe gastrointestinal distress in humans, distress and health issues in cats, and vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially lethal effects in dogs. Urgent veterinary care is essential if ingestion occurs.

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Quickly Identify Japanese wisteria

Pea-like, fragrant flowers in cascading clusters up to 3 feet (90 cm) long.

Bright green compound leaves with 15-19 leaflets, smooth texture, tinged with red when young.

Velvety textured seed pods, 2 1/2 to 6 inches (6.4 to 15.2 cm) long, containing 1-8 seeds.

Twining stem with dual green and gray coloration, thickening up to several inches in diameter.

Muscle-like, fluted trunk with dark gray bark, growing to widths up to 10 inches (25 cm).

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Care Guide for Japanese wisteria

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Japanese wisteria flourishes in moist, fertile soils like those in its native habitat of Japan. As a climbing vine, it requires moderate humidity and should be watered biweekly to prevent over-saturation. Growing outdoors allows japanese wisteria to benefit from natural rainfall, crucial for optimal growth and flowering.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, japanese wisteria needs balanced fertilizers, like a 10-10-10 NPK formula, in spring and summer every 3-4 weeks at half-strength. Reduce fertilization in fall and pause in winter. Water thoroughly after feeding to aid absorption. Beginners should start with lower quantities and adjust based on japanese wisteria's response.

Pruning: Japanese wisteria thrives with careful pruning, including removal of dead branches for better airflow. Prune in early spring for optimal growth and flowering. Avoid cuts during cold periods and use clean tools to prevent disease.

Propagation: Japanese wisteria, a member of the pea family, is best propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Utilizing rooting hormone and maintaining a warm, moist environment are essential for successful rooting. After root establishment, careful transplantation is important to protect the delicate root system.

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