Wisteria formosa 'Issai' (Issai Wisteria) — Vigorous climber, Twining stems

Overview

Wisteria formosa 'Issai' is a vigorous climber, twining stems climbing vine in the genus Wisteria, part of the Fabaceae family, with deciduous, pinnate leaves foliage. Wisteria formosa 'Issai' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include climbing on trellises, pergolas, walls and ornamental garden feature. It is native to China and Japan.

About

A vigorous, deciduous climbing vine known for its abundant, fragrant, pale violet-blue flowers appearing in late spring to early summer.

About the genus

Wisteria is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, Fabaceae (Leguminosae). The genus includes four species of woody twining vines that are native to China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, southern Canada, the Eastern United States, and north of Iran. They were later introduced to England, France, Germany and various other countries in Europe.

Wikipedia contributors, "Wisteria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Wisteria

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Wisteria

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained, fertile
Soil pH: neutral, slightly acidic, slightly alkaline
Soil moisture: moist, well-drained
Aspect: south, east, west
Exposure: sheltered to exposed
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Wisteria formosa 'Issai' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: climbing vine
Habit: Vigorous climber, Twining stems
Foliage: Deciduous, Pinnate leaves
Suggested uses: climbing on trellises, pergolas, walls, ornamental garden feature
Native to: China, Japan
Fragrance: fragrant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Wisteria formosa 'Issai'

Cultivation: Prefers full sun for best flowering; plant in well-drained soil; benefits from support structure; water regularly during dry periods.
Pruning: Prune twice yearly to control growth and encourage flowering: summer after flowering and winter to shape.
Propagation: propagated by hardwood cuttings or layering
Pest resistance: Aphids, Glasshouse red spider mite, Scale insects, Wisteria scale
Disease resistance: Honey fungus, Phytophthora root rot, Coral spot, Fungal leaf spot, Virus diseases, Powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Wisteria formosa 'Issai'?

Prefers full sun for best flowering; plant in well-drained soil; benefits from support structure; water regularly during dry periods.

Where is the best place to plant Wisteria formosa 'Issai'?

Wisteria formosa 'Issai' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered to exposed positions.

What soil does Wisteria formosa 'Issai' need?

Wisteria formosa 'Issai' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist to well-drained.

How do I prune Wisteria formosa 'Issai'?

Prune twice yearly to control growth and encourage flowering: summer after flowering and winter to shape.

Is Wisteria formosa 'Issai' hardy in the UK?

Wisteria formosa 'Issai' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Wisteria formosa 'Issai'?

Propagated by hardwood cuttings or layering.