There is a wisteria that blooms all summer, and it is called Evergreen Wisteria (Millettia reticulata). Unlike the common Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis), which can be invasive and take over your garden, Evergreen Wisteria is a non-invasive species, making it a great choice for landscaping.
One of the unique features of Evergreen Wisteria is that it can be evergreen in mild winter climates, typically in zones 9-10. This means that even during the winter months, when other plants may lose their leaves, Evergreen Wisteria will retain its foliage, providing year-round interest in the garden. However, in cooler climates, it is generally deciduous and will lose its leaves in the fall.
The name “Evergreen Wisteria” might lead you to believe that it is a true wisteria (Wisteria genus), but it is actually a member of the Millettia genus. Despite this, it shares many similarities with traditional wisterias, including its beautiful, cascading flowers.
Established Evergreen Wisteria plants will start to flower in late spring and continue blooming throughout the summer and into fall. This long blooming period is one of the reasons why it is often referred to as a wisteria that blooms all summer. The flowers are typically lavender or purple in color and have a delightful fragrance.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, the flowers of Evergreen Wisteria also serve an important purpose in the garden. They attract bees and other smaller pollinators, ensuring the continued health and biodiversity of your garden ecosystem.
When it comes to planting and caring for Evergreen Wisteria, there are a few key considerations. It prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. It is also a vine, so it will need some type of support structure to climb on, such as a trellis or pergola. Pruning is important to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Regular pruning after flowering will help control its size and encourage more blooms.
I have personally had the pleasure of growing Evergreen Wisteria in my garden, and it has been a delightful addition. The continuous blooming throughout the summer brings vibrant color and a touch of elegance to the landscape. The fragrance of the flowers also adds a lovely scent to the air, making it a joy to spend time in the garden.
To summarize, Evergreen Wisteria is a non-invasive species that can bloom all summer, making it a fantastic choice for gardeners looking for a wisteria-like plant with a longer blooming period. Its evergreen nature in mild winter climates and continuous flowering from late spring to fall make it a valuable addition to any garden. Whether you are a fan of wisterias or simply looking for a beautiful flowering vine, Evergreen Wisteria is definitely worth considering.
