Japanese Wisteria

Wisteria floribunda

Physical Characteristics

Wisteria floribunda is a deciduous Climber growing to 8 m (26ft) by 8 m (26ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Tea Seed - cooked[105, 177, 183]. When baked in a fire they have much the same flavour as chestnuts[249]. Some caution is advised, see the notes on toxicity at the top of the page. Young leaves - cooked[105, 177, 183]. The tender young leaves are sometimes eaten and are also used a a tea substitute[249]. Flowers - cooked[105, 177, 183]. Used as a food in parts of China[249].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The seed of all members of this genus is poisonous[200].