Wisteria, Japanese (Wisteria floribunda)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Vine

Wisteria, Japanese
Wisteria floribunda

Flowers of Japanese Wisteria
Flowers of Japanese Wisteria
 
Features
Hanging clusters of violet to violet-blue flowers in spring. Some cultivars may have pink or white flowers. Flowers are fragrant. 
 
Culture
Full sun. This vine needs a deep, moist, well drained soil. Tolerant of high pH soils. 
 
Cultivars
  • 'Issai' has bluish violet flowers in a cluster 12" long.
  • 'Ivory Tower' bears white flowers in clusters 2 feet long. Strong fragrance.
  • 'Macrobotrys' bears fragrant reddish violet flowers in clusters 2-3 feet long.
  • 'Rosea' has fragrant pink flowers. Clusters about 18" long.
 
 
Mature Height
25 Feet (This is a vigorous and heavy vine and will need a strong support.)
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 8 
 
Bloom Color
Lavender
Purple
 
 
Bloom Season
May - May
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Method of Attachment
Twining
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Only occasional insect and disease problems.

In very cold winters, flower buds may be killed.

 
Additional Notes

This vine is woody and deciduous.

Wisteria may not bloom for the first 5 to 10 years. To encourage flowering:

  • buy an older plant
  • use nitrogen sparingly
  • provide phosphorus
  • in summer, prune excess growth back to 1/3 to induce short spurs

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic