Wisteria
Wisteria sinensis
Family: Fabaceae · Also called Chinese Wisteria, Fuji, Purple Rain, Wisteria sinensis var. alba, Kraunhia sinensis, Wisteria brevidentata
Floral · Spring bloomer
Wisteria is a flower experienced as a cascade, long, pendulous racemes draping from pergolas and walls in curtains of purple, blue, pink, or white. When in full bloom, the effect is otherworldly: a living waterfall of flowers that perfumes the air and filters the light. Wisteria is among the longest-lived ornamental plants, with specimens in Japan over 1,000 years old.
devotion, endurance, welcome, immortality
In the Victorian language of flowers, wisteria means “Devoted and steadfast love”. In Japan, wisteria (fuji) is one of the most celebrated flowering plants, the Ashikaga Flower Park's 150-year-old wisteria is a national treasure. In the language of flowers, wisteria represents a warning against clinging too tightly. In Chinese art, wisteria often appears alongside pine as a symbol of enduring friendship.
Did You Know?
A wisteria vine in Sierra Madre, California covers an entire acre and weighs 250 tons, it's the largest flowering plant in the world. Wisteria can take 7-15 years to bloom from seed, testing the gardener's patience as severely as any plant.
Forest edges and riverbanks of China, Japan, and Korea
Wisteria is native to East Asia. It naturally grows in forest edges and riverbanks of china, japan, and korea.
Scent Profile
“A sweet, musky fragrance with grape-like and honey notes, dreamy and atmospheric, like a memory of a perfect spring afternoon.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameWisteria sinensis
- FamilyFabaceae
- Native ToEast Asia
- Bloom SeasonSpring
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
In Japan, wisteria (fuji) is one of the most celebrated flowering plants, the Ashikaga Flower Park's 150-year-old wisteria is a national treasure. In the language of flowers, wisteria represents a warning against clinging too tightly. In Chinese art, wisteria often appears alongside pine as a symbol of enduring friendship.