Friday, April 17, 2009

Wisteria Tree

This is my little wisteria tree in SJC. Growing a wisteria tree is a true act of patience because it takes many years for it to really look like anything other than a goofy mistake. If I hadn't seen a gorgeous old one at a local nursery I would have never attempted it. It will be years before the 'trunk' gains any girth and it will have to be pruned aggressively a number of times a year, but I hope it will be worth it.

I have a white one in Laguna that I have had for about six years and it is still in that awkward stage, not really a tree, not really a vine, but I keep hoping. The trouble with the white one is it is planted in the middle of a garden bed and it blends in with the white flowers of a spirea that blooms at the same time behind it. The lesson here? Think about the background of a plant that you want to be a focal point.

11 comments:

MNGarden said...

So pretty. I love it. There is no wisteria in my area that I have noticed lately. I may have to do something about that.

Anonymous said...

There's a house for sale in the middle of town -- one of the century old homes that is grand, both in its design and in its property. A verandah runs the width of the front of the house and it is covered with a wisteria vine. It is absolutely breathtaking when in bloom -- I hope the new owners appreciate it for what it really is!

Becca's Dirt said...

Such a beautiful wisteria. I like the look of the wisteria under a little control. They are beautiful.

Sheila said...

Nancy, my brother-in-law actually cut down an amazingly beautiful, mature wisteria because it only bloomed for one month out of the year! I could hardly believe it!

Stephanie said...

I recalled TV comedy show Desperate Housewife's Wisteria Lane but didn't notice if there was a Wisteria tree ha ha :-) Nonetheless, what a beautiful tree!

vuejardin said...

Purple Wisteria flower is so beautiful

joey said...

This would be a dream of mine ... but only a dream :(

Gail said...

Oh the synchronicity of the blogging world! I was staring at a totally out of control white wisteria and wondering if I could train it to behave itself! We only get blooms every couple of years...they are often killed by late frosts...Your wisteria is lovely and they smell so darned good!

Gail

Unknown said...

Made me smile and smile, Sheila. Mine isn't awake yet and it's only wee small, but it means a great deal to me, so I hope it prospers. Yours is gorgeous.

Heather said...

I love Wisteria but I don't think it will grow in my harsh winter climate. I will have to be content to look at yours. It sure is pretty now, gawky phase or not:-D
Heather

WiseAcre said...

Like I needed another bright idea :)