Also known as Glenda · Glicine · Pruneau
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Chinese wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) is a vigorous, deciduous vine known for its spectacular cascading clusters of fragrant purple-blue flowers in spring.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering, but tolerates partial shade.
Consistent moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods and flowering.
Well-drained, fertile loam
50% intensity
Moderate to warm
50% intensity
Thrives in temperate climates; can tolerate a range of temperatures but needs protection from extreme cold.
Moderate feeding
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring; avoid high nitrogen to encourage blooms.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested, especially the seeds and pods.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Chinese wisteria prefers consistent moisture, especially during its establishment phase and flowering. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly in winter when the plant is dormant.
Pruning is crucial for managing size and encouraging blooms. Prune in late winter to remove dead or weak wood and shape the plant.
A second prune in mid-summer after flowering, shortening new shoots to 2-3 buds, promotes flower bud formation for the following year.
Chinese wisteria is best propagated by layering or cuttings. Take semi-hardwood cuttings in summer and root them in a well-draining medium.
Layering involves bending a low-growing stem to the ground, covering a section with soil, and waiting for it to root before detaching.
Repotting is generally not necessary for established, in-ground plants. For container-grown wisteria, repot every 2-3 years in early spring before active growth begins.
Use a larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix to provide more space for root development.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis)
Where Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Wisteria |
| Species | Wisteria sinensis |
Similar in genus Wisteria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
