Southeastern North American native wisteria with shorter flower racemes than the Asian species and a much less aggressive habit. The right wisteria for North American gardens, where Asian species are seriously invasive.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 5–9 | −28.9 °C to −1.1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H6 | −20 °C to −15 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 6–8 | −18 °C to −1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 2–5 | −10 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Plant on pergolas, arbours, and wall trellises — flowers slightly later than Asian wisteria (early summer rather than late spring) and reblooms more reliably
- Distinct from Chinese and Japanese wisteria — American wisteria is far less aggressive, more compact, and the correct choice for the southeastern United States where Asian wisterias are listed as invasive
- WARNING: All parts toxic — seeds especially
- Cultivar ‘Amethyst Falls’ is widely available and reliably hardy
Pet caution: American wisteria is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
Categories
Related plants
Cross-check American wisteria against your zones