Millettia reticulata (Evergreen Wisteria)

Millettia reticulata or Evergreen wisteria produces a profusion of fragrant blue, lavender or purple flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Its foliage is a glossy emerald green, and in colder months, a warm reddish-brown hue. The plant is cold hardy at least to mid-20s F for a short time, so it can be grown in USDA Zones 8-10. For colder regions, plant evergreen wisteria in containers and move it indoors in winter. As evergreen wisteria grows, prune it regularly, at least twice a year, to keep its size and shape in check.

For best growth, evergreen wisteria should be placed in full sun and should be watered moderately. During the growing season, it should be watered deeply to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. In the winter, it should not be watered as frequently. When the vine is young, light fertilization is recommended, but once it is mature, it requires little to no extra fertilizer.

Evergreen wisteria can reach heights of 30 feet, however it can be pruned smaller. Plant it with support to provide lush shade over a walkway or patio, or use it to create a thick living wall on a trellis or cables. Unlike the lavender-blooming Chinese wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) and Japanese wisteria (Wisteria floribunda), Evergreen wisteria is not an invasive plant.

With proper care, evergreen wisteria will provide a beautiful and fragrant flowering climber for your garden.