Chinese wisteria and Mountain clematis are often considered for the same spot in the garden (screening, flowers, pollinator friendly). 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.…
Clematis montana 8 m × 4 m after 10 years
One of the most vigorous clematis: it climbs by twisting leaf stalks, so it needs wires, a trellis, a fence or an old tree, and will not go up a…
Chinese wisteria is hardier: down to -20 °C, against -18 °C for Mountain clematis.
Chinese wisteria tolerates drought better than Mountain clematis.
Mountain clematis needs less care than Chinese wisteria.
Mountain clematis is cheaper: about €12 at the size usually planted, against about €19 for Chinese wisteria.
|
Feature
|
Chinese wisteria
|
Mountain clematis
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Climber | Climber |
| Size after 10 years | 10 m × 8 m | 8 m × 4 m |
| Ultimate size | 8–15 m × 4–10 m | 5–12 m × 2.4–4.5 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Fast |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous |
| Hardiness | down to -20 °C (USDA 6, RHS H6) | down to -18 °C (USDA 6, RHS H6) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | April–June, purple, blue, white, pink | May–June, white, pink |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Medium | Low |
| Maintenance | High | Low |
| Planting distance | 400 cm | 200 cm |
| For dogs | Toxic | Toxic |
| For cats | Toxic | Toxic |
| For children | Toxic (uncertain) | Toxic |
| Typical price | approx. €19 | approx. €12 |
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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