Japanese Wisteria 'Lawrence'

Wisteria floribunda 'Lawrence' is widely considered one of the finest blue-flowering Japanese Wisterias. It is exceptionally floriferous, producing an abundance of incredibly long, drooping racemes that can reach up to 45cm in length. The pea-like flowers are a beautiful pale lavender-blue with a distinct citrus fragrance that fills the spring air. This cultivar is particularly prized in Britain for its reliability and the sheer quantity of flowers it produces even on younger plants. As a twining climber, it requires a sturdy support system such as a pergola or a series of strong wires against a sunny wall. It is fully hardy (H6) but benefits from a sheltered position to protect the emerging flower buds from late spring frosts. To ensure a spectacular display, it requires regular pruning twice a year—once in late summer (hacking back long whips) and again in mid-winter (shortening spurs). It creates a breathtaking curtain of colour in May.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, fertile soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.