Wisteria
Wisteria sinensis
Hardy in zones 5-9
This Chinese version is different from the Japanese in that it twines counterclockwise. Wisterias require full sun, although the roots will enjoy some shade. Choose a site that is somewhat sheltered, even summer breezes are hard on the delicate blooms. Almost any soil will do, as long as it is free draining. This vigorous, twining climber flowers in late spring. Usually Wisteria is forced to grow horizontally. This changes the hormonal balance of the stem from a growth stem to a flowering stem. If left unchecked, it will grow way too high and only produce blooms too high to enjoy. In summer, train the long leaders in the direction you want to spread. To encourage flowering spurs, pinch or cut back unwanted shoots to about three buds from their base. Cut back very long stems to five buds from where they started. Zones 5-9.
Please Note: All or parts of this plant are poisonous
