Overview
Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' is a climbing climber wall shrub in the genus Wisteria, part of the Fabaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 4-8 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include climber, wall cover, pergola, arch and standard.
About
Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' is a deciduous climbing cultivar of the Wisteria genus, which belongs to the Fabaceae family. This woody twining vine can reach heights of 4 to 8 metres with a spread of 1 to 1.5 metres, typically taking 10 to 20 years to reach full height. It thrives in full sun or partial shade, favouring sheltered, south- or west-facing aspects. The plant grows well in a variety of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with a preference for moist but well-drained conditions and a range of soil pH levels. It is most notable in spring and 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
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Climber Wall Shrub
- Habit
- Climbing
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Climber, Wall cover, Pergola, Arch, Standard
- Fragrance
- Fragrant
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline'
- Cultivation
- Plant in spring or autumn in fertile, well-drained soil. Provide strong support for climbing. Water regularly during dry periods. Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
- Pruning
- Prune twice a year: once in summer after flowering to control growth and again in winter to shape and encourage flowering spurs.
- Propagation
- Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings, Layering
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildew, Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline'?
Plant in spring or autumn in fertile, well-drained soil. Provide strong support for climbing. Water regularly during dry periods. Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
Where is the best place to plant Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline'?
Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' need?
Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline'?
Prune twice a year: once in summer after flowering to control growth and again in winter to shape and encourage flowering spurs.
How big does Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' grow?
Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' reaches a height of 4-8 metres and a spread of 1-1.5 metres. It takes around 10-20 years to reach full size.
Is Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' hardy in the UK?
Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Wisteria x formosa 'Caroline'?
Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings, Layering.
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