Wisteria floribunda Domino

Wisteria floribunda 'Domino', (also known as 'Issai'), is a delightful Japanese wisteria appreciated for its abundant flowering in spring, rapid flowering, and the honey-scented lavender flower clusters it produces. Its moderate growth, in comparison to the gigantism of its cousin the Chinese wisteria (Wisteria sinensis), is an additional asset in small gardens. It can easily be trained as a bush and will also delight bonsai enthusiasts.

It is a Japanese horticultural creation dating back to 1940. It is a cross between Wisteria floribunda from Japan and its cousin, W. formosa. These plants belong to the Fabaceae family. Like its ancestors, 'Domino' is a hardy plant that is resistant to cold. It is not very demanding in terms of soil (although it does not tolerate excess active lime), and can grow in poor soils that are dry in summer, provided they are deep. Its roots are deep and spreading. This variety has been awarded by the RHS for its ornamental qualities and performance in the garden.

Its voluble stems eventually reach a length of about 6 to 7m (20 to 23ft) and naturally twine around supports in a clockwise direction. The growth of new shoots is very rapid, about 2m (7ft) in a single season in moist soil. Flowering occurs in May, on plants that are 2 years old or older. It develops on slightly leafy branches located close to the main lignified stems. The flowers form pendulous, papilionaceous clusters that are bluish-pink to mauve. The fragrant blooms measure 20 to 30cm (8 to 12in) in length. They open successively, from the base to the tip of the cluster. The flowers are nectar-rich and attractive to bees. After the flowers, pendulous pods appear, which are flat and green, turning brown when mature. The young bronze-coloured leaves turn a light green colour. They are 20 to 30cm (8 to 12in) long and divided into 13 to 15 ovate leaflets, giving the foliage a light appearance. Before falling in autumn, the leaves take on a beautiful golden colour. 'Domino' can live for more than 50 years.

This graceful and lively plant is particularly useful for covering walls or unsightly fences. It will twine around a trellis or the branches of a bush without restraint if left to its own devices. However, it tends to smother nearby plants. It is best suited for a solitary position, in full sun. Plant it in partial shade in hot climates. Alternatively, it can be paired with vigorous honeysuckles, clematis, or climbing roses.