Description

General aspect and origins - Wisteria sinensis syn. Wisteria chinensis is also known as the Chinese wisteria. This decidious and long lived vine is native to China, as its common name suggests. It has white or mauve flowers which are grouped in clusters. These clusters are smaller than than of its close relative, the Japanese wisteria. However, the perfume of the Chinese wisteria is generally more powerfull.
Leaves - Leaves are decidious and compound. They usually consist of 7 to 13 leaflets.
Flowers - This wisteria has ornamental and fragrant flowers, which appear in spring. Flowers are grouped in drooping clusters, and are mauve or white, depending on the variety.
Fruits - The fruit, which is inedible, is a long pubescent seedpod, which contains dark, smooth and flattened seeds.

Culture

The Chinese wisteria is a most ornamental vine, especially in spring, when in full bloom. It is a powerfull vine, which may reach great dimensions. However, it can be maintained to a smaller size with regular prunings. This vine is quite frost hardy, as it can withstand USDA zones 5 (and warmer) winters.
Soil - This vine can grow in a relatively large range of soils. However, it prefers drained and rather fertile soils that remain fairly moist during the growing season.

Propagation

This vine can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, air layering, or grafts. However, propagation by seeds is likely to lead to shy bloomers. Vegetative propagation should be prefered, so as to be sure of the blooming habits and features of the wisteria being propagated.