Wisteria: Vigorous, Fragrant Vines for Western Gardens

Known as chiao teng (beautiful vine) in China and Fuji in Japan, wisteria is a rambunctious, twining woody vine with lacy green foliage and spectacular flower clusters 1–3 feet long in blue, pink, purple, and white. It thrives in any well-drained soil across all Western climate zones—but demands space, as it grows vigorously, even rampantly.

Top Types

• Chinese & Japanese wisterias – Most widely sold.
• Silky wisteria (Japan) – Deserves equal attention.

These have largely replaced the southeastern U.S. species (W. frutescens, W. macrostachya), introduced in the 18th century but now seldom planted in the West.

Training Options

Train as climbers, ground covers, or tree forms (often sold pre-trained). Provide sturdy support and room to roam.