Chinese wisteria and Japanese wisteria are often considered for the same spot in the garden (shade, flowers, pollinator friendly, specimen). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Wisteria sinensis 10 m × 8 m after 10 years
Its fragrant, hanging flower clusters suit a sturdy pergola or a substantial support beside a sunny wall, while the summer foliage provides shade.…
Wisteria floribunda 8 m × 5 m after 10 years
A long-lived climbing shrub with long, scented, hanging flower clusters in spring, at its best on a pergola or a sturdy arbour. It climbs by twining…
Japanese wisteria is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -20 °C for Chinese wisteria.
Chinese wisteria is cheaper: about €19 at the size usually planted, against about €25 for Japanese wisteria.
|
Feature
|
Chinese wisteria
|
Japanese wisteria
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Climber | Climber |
| Size after 10 years | 10 m × 8 m | 8 m × 5 m |
| Ultimate size | 8–15 m × 4–10 m | 3–15 m × 1.2–10 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Fast |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Acidic |
| Hardiness | down to -20 °C (USDA 6, RHS H6) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | April–June, purple, blue, white, pink | April–May, purple, blue, pink, white |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Medium | Medium |
| Maintenance | High | High |
| Planting distance | 400 cm | 400 cm |
| For dogs | Toxic | Toxic |
| For cats | Toxic | Toxic |
| For children | Toxic (uncertain) | Toxic |
| Typical price | approx. €19 | approx. €25 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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