Japanese Wisteria 'Black Dragon' - Shrub

Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun, partial shade or against walls which have a southern exposure. Make sure the root ball of the Japanese Wisteria is well-moistened by soaking it in a bucket full of lukewarm water overnight. Prepare a suitable hole, the soil can be improved by adding some compost and garden manure, especially when planted near the wall. Plant the root ball at the appropriate depth in the hole. The top of the root ball should be just slightly below ground level. Fill the hole with soil and press firmly. Water immediately after planting.

The Japanese Wisteria is a climber with rapidly-growing aerial roots which they use for griping. Train the young shoots to climb in the appropriate direction. This plant is best used as a solitary plant. With some patience, it is even possible to let the Japanese Wisteria grow into a mature tree. Provide support using a sturdy climbing pole next to the tree.

The Japanese Wisteria is one of the most beautiful climbers. The dark violet flowers are hearty and in long, graceful drooping clusters. The swaying branches of the Japanese Wisteria are very powerful and can damage sensitive materials such as drainpipes. Its seeds are poisonous.

For a rich growth and flowering of the Japanese Wisteria, it is recommended to train some long horizontal branches, for example, along a wall or a pergola. The Japanese Wisteria is a strong plant that needs minimal maintenance. Give it extra water during dry periods. Provide it with a layer of mulch of garden compost and manure during the winter.

Wisterias growing into trees do not need pruning. During the first growing season, tie in lateral shoots to the framework and cut back sub-laterals to 2 or 3 buds. In the first winter, cut back laterals by one-third of their length, subl-aterals to 2 or 3 buds. Once established, in late summer cut back all shoots not needed to extend the framework, to within 15cm (6in) of the main branches; leave 4-6 leaves on each shoot. In midwinter, reduce these spurs further to 8-10cm (3-4in), leaving only 2-3 buds.