Wisteria floribunda ‘Kuchi-beni’

This exquisite Japanese Wisteria, often affectionately known as ‘Lipstick’ Wisteria, is a real showstopper that we’ve found performs reliably year after year. Its most captivating feature is the abundant production of very long, drooping clusters, reaching up to 45cm, packed with pea-like flowers. Each bloom is a delicate pale mauve-pink, artfully tipped with a deeper purple, creating a stunning bi-colour effect that is truly unique amongst wisterias. We particularly appreciate its strong, clockwise-twining habit, which allows it to quickly establish and create a dramatic, romantic focal point in any garden.

For optimal flowering, we recommend siting ‘Kuchi-beni’ in full sun, though it will tolerate partial shade. It thrives in a moderately fertile, moist, and well-drained soil, adapting well to various soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand. While established plants are reasonably drought tolerant, we advise regular watering during dry periods, especially when the plant is establishing and forming flower buds. This cultivar is fully hardy across most of the UK.

To encourage a prolific display of flowers and maintain its elegant form, we recommend a two-stage pruning regime: once in mid-summer after flowering, cutting back the whippy new growth to five or six leaves, and again in mid-winter, shortening these same shoots to three to five buds. In spring, expect the glorious, fragrant flower racemes to emerge, often alongside or just before the fresh, light green foliage, which can have a bronze tint when young. Throughout summer, the lush green leaves provide excellent shade and privacy, followed by attractive bean-like pods. Come autumn, the foliage transforms into a brilliant yellow, adding another layer of seasonal interest before the plant sheds its leaves for winter. This Wisteria is perfect for training over sturdy pergolas, arbours, or against a sunny house wall, where its cascading blooms and sweet scent can be fully appreciated.