Wisteria brachybotrys ‘Okayama’ (Silky Wisteria)

Strongly scented, award-winning Wisteria brachybotrys ‘Okayama’ produces masses of hanging sprays, up to 4-6 in. long (10-15 cm), of fragrant, pea-like, pale lilac flowers with a large and conspicuous white spot. Opening from rich violet buds, they bloom early in the season in late spring. The flowers are followed by attractive, velvety, bean-like pods, 8 in. long (20 cm), which ripen in late summer and may persist into winter. Particularly attractive is the dense foliage of exotic-looking, pale green, pinnate leaves, which consist of 11 downy leaflets and turn rich golden-yellow in fall. A beautiful choice for a house wall or large pergola.

• Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• A long-lived climber, this Silky Wisteria can grow vigorously up to 10-20 ft. tall (3-6 m). It climbs by twining anticlockwise (from right to left around the axis).
• Thrives in full sun or part shade in moderately fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Drought tolerant. Best flower production is obtained in full sun.
• Can be grown against a house wall, arbors, pergolas, trellises, or fences or trained as a free-standing half standard. It must be sited and trained on sturdy structures which will be able to support the heavy weight of the mature Wisteria. Grow this plant around patios where the flowers can be enjoyed.
• Susceptible to foliage-chewing insects and fungal diseases, but none are significant. Deer resistant
• Needs regular pruning to control the size and shape of the plant and to promote flowering.
• Propagate by layering, softwood cuttings, hardwood cuttings, or grafting. Choose sites wisely because plants dislike being transplanted.
• All parts may cause severe discomfort if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.