Wisteria plants have been described in many ways, such as, hardy, beautiful, tough, magical and unmanageable. We agree with the previous descriptions of wisteria, but an asterisk would be placed next to unmanageable!  Having your pruners handy will keep wisteria very manageable, whether you have it in a tree form or as a vine-type plant. Many plant species need to be trained by pruning, but most of these species are not nearly as hardy or fast growing as the wisteria species. 

Pruning is the secret to good flowering, and it is best to prune wisteria in late winter. Remove at least half of the prior year's growth, and keep a few buds per stem. If you wish for a more formal appearance, you can prune again during summer after its flowering is completed. It is a very forgiving plant and grows in a wide range of soils. It even likes sand and clay, and tolerates drought and salt!  Wisteria can grow in partial shade in the south, but needs full sun in the north.  

Many vines do not display such multitudes of beautiful flowers as the wisteria plant, and the scented blossoms add a layer of pleasant fragrance to your landscape. The combination of hardiness, growth rate, stateliness, and flowering capabilities are not easily matched with the wisteria plant. The tree form of Chinese Blue wisteria is a superb plant for small yards, but can also be used in landscapes as a beautiful accent plant. The vine-types are wonderful for pergolas, fences, walls, and porch railings. Use wisteria as a cover for an unsightly area since it will add vertical interest, color and texture wherever planted. With its good looking foliage and wonderful pendulous drupes of flowers of blue, lavender, and purple, you will be pleased with your selection of wisteria.