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Description
Wisteria Formosa Caroline, also known as Chinese wisteria, is a deciduous climbing vine that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to China, Japan, and Korea and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world. The plant produces beautiful, fragrant, lavender-blue flowers that grow in long, drooping clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Wisteria |
Appearance
The Wisteria Formosa Caroline can grow up to 30 feet long and wide. It has shiny green leaves that are divided into nine to thirteen leaflets. The flowers bloom in the late spring or early summer and are about 1 inch long. They grow in clusters of up to 12 inches long and hang down from the stems. The plant produces a woody stem that can become quite thick with age.
Care Guide
Wisteria Formosa Caroline requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It grows best in hardiness zones 5-9. It needs regular watering during the growing season, but the soil should not be waterlogged. It should be fertilized in the spring and again in the fall with a balanced fertilizer. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wisteria Formosa Caroline is susceptible to several pests and diseases. Spider mites, aphids, and scale insects can attack the plant, causing leaf discoloration and damage. The plant can also be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and crown gall. It is important to regularly check the plant for any signs of pests or diseases and treat them promptly.
Habitat
The Wisteria Formosa Caroline is native to China, Japan, and Korea and is commonly found growing in forests, along streams, and in other wooded areas. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world and can be seen growing on trellises, pergolas, and other structures.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Wisteria Formosa Caroline grow in shade?
A: No, it requires full sunlight to grow and bloom properly.
Q: How often should Wisteria Formosa Caroline be watered?
A: It should be watered regularly during the growing season, but the soil should not be waterlogged.
Q: When is the best time to prune Wisteria Formosa Caroline?
A: Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.
Q: What type of fertilizer should be used for Wisteria Formosa Caroline?
A: A balanced fertilizer should be used in the spring and again in the fall.
Related Plants
- Wisteria floribunda
- Wisteria sinensis
- Wisteria frutescens
References
- “Wisteria Formosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=i560.
- “Wisteria Formosa.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/growing-chinese-wisteria-3269219.
- “Plant Profile: Wisteria.” USDA NRCS, plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_wifr.pdf.
