Wisteria floribunda ‘Yae-kokuryu’ (Japanese Wisteria)

A remarkable double-flowered Wisteria, Wisteria floribunda ‘Yae-kokuryu’ (Japanese Wisteria) produces masses of hanging clusters, up to 20 in. long (50 cm), packed with lightly scented, dark purple, double flowers. They appear in late spring or early summer, along with the leaves. They bloom in succession from the base and produce a dramatic floral display. The flowers are followed by attractive, velvety, green, bean-like pods, which ripen in fall and may persist into winter. Equally attractive is the dense foliage of bright green, pinnate leaves, which consist of 11-19 lance-shaped leaflets and turn brilliant golden-yellow in fall. This Japanese Wisteria is a real show-stopper.

• A long-lived climber, this Japanese Wisteria can grow vigorously up to 30 ft. tall (9 m) and 20 ft. wide (6 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.