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Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Wisteria
Care at a glance
Light
Water
Humidity
Temperature
Growth
Soil
Fertiliser
Pet safety
About this plant
Chinese wisteria (W. sinensis) is a powerful, long-lived vine for large pergolas. 'Amethyst Falls' is a less vigorous native American species that flowers younger and repeats lightly in summer, making it much better for smaller spaces and containers.
Best spots
Pergolas, arbours, sturdy balcony trellises and large pots (Amethyst Falls).
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Wisteria frutescens 'Amethyst Falls'; W. sinensis |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Origin | USA (W. frutescens); China (W. sinensis) |
| Plant type | Deciduous twining climber |
| Mature size | 3–10 m+ |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Foliage | Pinnate green leaves |
| Flowers | Fragrant purple racemes |
| Toxicity | Highly toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Layering or grafting |
Seasonal care calendar
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| No flowers | Seed-grown plants, too much nitrogen or too much shade. Buy grafted plants and prune twice a year. |
| Rampant growth | Prune long shoots back to 5–6 leaves in summer. |
| Yellow leaves | Alkaline soil or overwatering. |
| Buds drop | Late frost or drought. |
| Damaged structures | Chinese wisteria is very strong; use sturdy supports. |
Common questions
How do I get wisteria to flower?
Full sun, low nitrogen and a twice-yearly prune.
How do I prune wisteria?
In summer, shorten new shoots to 5–6 leaves. In winter, cut them back to 2–3 buds.
Can it grow in a pot?
Yes, choose 'Amethyst Falls' and a large pot.
Is it toxic?
Yes, especially the seeds and pods.
