Wisteria Floribunda "Alba" Japanese White

• Native to Japan, this deciduous climber has been cultivated for centuries in temple gardens and is considered a symbol of longevity.
• The Alba variety produces pure white flower clusters instead of the typical purple, making it highly sought after by garden designers.
• Can live for over 100 years and grows 8-10 metres tall with proper support structures and regular pruning.
• Flowers appear in late winter to early spring before leaves emerge, creating dramatic seasonal impact in Australian gardens.
• The twisted trunk develops character with age, making mature specimens valuable landscape features even when not flowering.

• Water deeply once weekly during growing season, reducing to monthly in winter. Check soil moisture 5cm down before watering.
• Position in full sun location with at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily. Morning sun exposure is essential for flower development.
• Plant in well-draining soil with pH 6.0-7.0, amended with compost and coarse materials to prevent waterlogging.
• Feed with low-nitrogen fertiliser in early spring, avoiding high-nitrogen products that promote foliage over flowers.
• Prune in summer immediately after flowering, then again in winter to maintain size and encourage flowering spurs.
• Provide strong pergola or fence support as mature plants become extremely heavy and vigorous.
• Mulch around base in summer to retain moisture and keep roots cool during hot Australian summers.

• Provide full sun exposure for at least 6 hours daily to ensure abundant flowering. Morning sun is particularly important for bud development.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Established plants are quite drought tolerant once roots are deep.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost. Heavy clay soils should be amended with coarse sand and organic matter.
• Prune twice yearly - summer pruning after flowering and winter pruning to maintain shape. This encourages flower bud formation.
• Support with strong structures as mature vines become very heavy with age.

• Scale insects can attach to stems causing yellowing leaves. Treat with horticultural oil or systemic insecticide during cooler months.
• Aphids may cluster on new growth in spring. Spray with soapy water solution or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds.
• Root rot occurs in poorly draining soils causing wilting despite moist soil. Improve drainage and reduce watering frequency.
• Powdery mildew appears as white patches on leaves in humid conditions. Increase air circulation and apply fungicide spray.
• Lack of flowering often results from over-fertilising with nitrogen. Reduce feeding and prune correctly after flowering.