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Description
Wisteria Frutescens, commonly known as American wisteria, is a deciduous vine native to the southeastern United States. This plant is a member of the legume family, Fabaceae, and grows up to 30 feet long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Wisteria |
Appearance
Wisteria Frutescens has pinnately compound leaves that are shiny, dark green, and up to 12 inches long. The flowers are fragrant and range in color from white to pale lavender. They bloom in the late spring or early summer and can last for up to two weeks. The fruit of this plant is a legume that is about 4 inches long and contains seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Wisteria Frutescens, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wisteria Frutescens is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation. If the plant becomes infected, treat it with a fungicide. Be mindful of leaf-feeding caterpillars, which can damage the foliage but are easily controlled with an insecticide.
Habitat
Wisteria Frutescens can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and riverbanks. It can tolerate a range of soil types and thrives in moist, well-drained soil. This plant is often used in landscaping and can be trained to climb trellises, walls, or other structures.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I prune my Wisteria Frutescens?
A: Prune your Wisteria Frutescens once a year in the late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.
Q: Can I grow Wisteria Frutescens in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Wisteria Frutescens in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How do I propagate Wisteria Frutescens?
A: Wisteria Frutescens can be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the early summer or by layering in the late summer or early fall.
Q: Does Wisteria Frutescens attract bees and other pollinators?
A: Yes, Wisteria Frutescens is a valuable source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Wisteria sinensis
- Wisteria floribunda
- Wisteria brachybotrys
References
- Bonnie Plants. (n.d.). American Wisteria. Retrieved from https://bonnieplants.com/product/american-wisteria/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Wisteria frutescens. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b720
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Wisteria frutescens: American Wisteria. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/fp221
