Wisteria venusta

Wisteria venusta 'Alba' is a Japanese Wisteria, a climbing and hardy plant, appreciated for its abundant flowering in short clusters of ivory white and fragrant flowers. It is the least vigorous of the Wisterias, ideal for small spaces.

Also known as Silky or Japanese Wisteria, it has deciduous leaves with 12 medium green leaflets, ovate in shape and 4 to 8cm (2 to 3in) long. The stems twine from left to right on solid supports. In May, pendulous clusters of 15cm (6in) long, fragrant, ivory-white butterfly-like flowers are formed. The fruits, shaped like velvety beans, measure from 10 to 15cm (4 to 6in) long.

Hardy down to -20°C (-4°F) and slow to establish, it prefers non-alkaline, well-drained, fertile, and deep soils, in sunny or partially shaded positions, warm and sheltered from strong winds. The soil should be enriched with organic matter every year. Pruning should be done in February when the flower buds are formed.

With its 4m (13ft) height, the Wisteria venusta 'Alba' is used to adorn walls, railings, pergolas, arbours, and porches for a romantic garden. Beware, Wisteria branches are capable of twisting even the strongest trellis. Beware, all parts of the Wisteria are toxic if ingested!