Wisteria frutescens

Wisteria frutescens, commonly known as American wisteria, is a deciduous climbing vine native to the southeastern United States. A member of the pea family, it can grow up to 30 feet in length. The plant produces clusters of fragrant, lavender-blue flowers in late spring and early summer, attracting bees and butterflies. Its green, pinnately compound leaves, consisting of 9-15 leaflets, turn yellow in the fall before dropping off. American wisteria thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, but once established, it can also tolerate some drought. Due to its beautiful flowers and ability to climb structures with its twining stems, it is often used as an ornamental plant on trellises, arbors, or pergolas. However, caution is necessary, as this species can become invasive if not properly maintained or controlled, owing to its vigorous growth habit through suckering roots or self-seeding capabilities.

🌳 The native American wisteria is less vigorous, aggressive, and destructive to buildings compared to its Asian counterpart. However, its flowers are just as showy and fragrant. Like Asian wisteria, it can be trained to grow over walls, columns, or arbors—just ensure that the support structure is tall enough. Interestingly, American wisteria is also tolerant of flooding.

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Characteristics

Plant Type

Vine

Life Cycle

Perennial

Genus

Wisteria

Family

Fabaceae

Hardiness Zone

5-10

Mature Height

4.57 m to 12.19 m

Mature Spread

1.22 m to 2.44 m

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Color

Lavender

Flower Size

7.62 cm to 15.24 cm

Bloom Time

Late spring, Early summer

Planting Time

Spring, Autumn

Harvest Time

Mid summer

Native Area

North America

Tags (22)

Common Names (2)