Japanese Wisteria (Wisteria floribunda)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; full sun exposure promotes abundant, fragrant blooming

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Watering Water deeply when the top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; tolerates hot summers but benefits from afternoon shade in extreme heat

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Leaf: Pinnately compound, 15–35 cm long; 13–19 oval to oblong leaflets, bright green turning yellow in autumn
Flower: Pendulous racemes 20–100 cm long; fragrant violet-purple pea-like blooms
Stem: Twining woody stems with rough, brown bark as it matures

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during growing and blooming season

Fertilization

Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Do not over-fertilize, as this can reduce flower production

Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to promote robust flower development

Pruning

Prune long, unruly shoots in summer to control growth and encourage flower bud formation
Cut back previous year’s growth to 3–5 buds in late winter to promote dense, abundant blooming
Remove dead or damaged wood annually to maintain plant health and structural integrity

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains lectins and wisterin, causing gastrointestinal distress

Humans: Seeds and pods contain lectins and wisterin; ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal upset

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Culture: Symbolizes love, sensuality, and longevity in traditional Japanese garden design

Usage: Ornamental vine for arbors, pergolas, and walls; fragrant cut flowers for floral arrangements