Wisteria floribunda ‘Kuchi Beni’ (Japanese Wisteria)

Noted for its excellent fragrance, Wisteria floribunda ‘Kuchi Beni’ (Japanese Wisteria) produces masses of very long drooping clusters, up to 18 in. long (45 cm), packed with pea-like, pale mauve-pink flowers, tipped with purple. Blooming in late spring or early summer, the flowers are followed by attractive, bean-like pods, which ripen in late summer and may persist into winter. Equally attractive is the dense foliage of light green, pinnate leaves, which consist of 15 lance-shaped leaflets and turn brilliant yellow in fall. This Japanese Wisteria is a strong-growing climber with twining stems of great beauty.

• A long-lived climber, this Japanese Wisteria can grow vigorously up to 30 ft. tall (9 m). It climbs by twining clockwise (from left to right around the axis).
• Thrives in full sun or part shade in moderately fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Drought tolerant. Best flower production is obtained in full sun.
• Can be grown against a house wall, arbors, pergolas, trellises, or fences or trained as a free-standing half standard. It must be sited and trained on sturdy structures which will be able to support the heavy weight of the mature Wisteria. Grow this plant around patios where the flowers can be enjoyed.
• Susceptible to foliage-chewing insects and fungal diseases, but none are significant. Deer resistant
• Needs regular pruning to control the size and shape of the plant and to promote flowering.
• Propagate by layering, softwood cuttings, hardwood cuttings, or grafting. Choose sites wisely because plants dislike being transplanted.
• All parts may cause severe discomfort if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Wisteria floribunda species is native to temperate Asia and Japan.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• If you love the spectacular beauty of wisteria, the native American species, Wisteria frutescens, is a great alternative. It is less invasive than its Asian cousins and much less likely to get out of control.