Japanese Wisteria Yae-kokuryu
This climbing wisteria is suitable for the larger garden, as it can grow very big; it will need the support of a stout pergola or large house wall, with supports. Wisteria floribunda Violacea Plena or Black Dragon is a big, fast-growing, deciduous climber, and twines anti-clockwise. The long leaves are navided into numerous leaflets. Pea-like flowers appear in May and June, in long, drooping clusters, double, violet-blue, and scented. This climber is good in an architectural, city or courtyard garden, but you do need a structure big enough to contain the plant, or it will get under your slates. Prune twice a year, and allow ample space for the root-run. Japanese wisteria Yae-kokuryu holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.
Site: Sheltered
Soil: Any fertile, moist but well-drained soil
Position: Best in full sun; tolerates light, dappled shade
Season of interest: Late spring and early summer in particular
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: 26-40’ (8-12m) Spread: 8-13’ (2.5-4m) in 10-20 years