What Is Wisteria Chinensis?

Wisteria Chinensis, also know as Chinese Wisteria, is a deciduous flowering vine. It is a hardy plant that spreads easily and can live for many years. The plant has lush foliage, seed pods, and clusters of flowers that are blue, violet, or white.

Though it can survive in partial shade, Wisteria Chinensis grows best in full sun. It is also more likely to bloom with lots of light. If it is planted in soil that is too rich, it will not bloom, though the foliage will usually thrive.

The flowers of the Wisteria Chinensis are noted for their sweet fragrance. They usually bloom all at the same time, in large clusters that hang from the vine. The blooms are at their peak in mid-spring.

A typical Wisteria Chinensis vine will have a trunk that is approximately 1 foot (.3 meters) across. Its vine will usually grow to about 40 feet (12.2 meters) long. The average lifespan of the plant is typically over 50 years, with some vines lasting as long as a century.

Wisteria Chinensis is a highly invasive plant. If it is not pruned regularly, it will not only spread, but will twist itself around other plants and generally overcrowd anything growing around it. For this reason it is wise to keep the vine separate from other plants if possible. In order to give the vine ample room, it is advisable to give it a trellis, fence, or other similar structure upon which to grow. The plant grows more aggressively in climate areas which provide the same atmosphere as the plant’s native China.

It is important to trim Wisteria Chinensis seed pods carefully as any seeds that fall to the ground can easily take root. The plant can also be extremely difficult to get rid of. The main root and every other part of the plant must be completely removed from the soil as any remaining part can take root and start a new growth.

In the wild, Wisteria Chinensis grows easily. It can often be invasive to the point of harming its surrounding ecosystem. The plant can be found growing at the edges of forests and on ledges and cliffs.

Wisteria Chinensis is a toxic plant. Its flowers, seeds, and bark can be harmful if ingested. Children are at particular risk for poisoning from the plant. Some of the symptoms of poisoning include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach problems.