New Mystery "Wisteria"

Originally Posted by I.B.

I think your wisteria is the:

Dwarf Wisteria
Millettia japonica 'Microphylla'

This choice species has two Japanese names: "Ko Fuji" (Dwarf Wisteria) and "Mekura Fuji" (Blind Wisteria). It is called Blind Wisteria because it "never" blossoms. I've been growing this species for over 25 years and have never seed it flower. Boon in CA told me his flowered, and I did not believe him until he sent me photo of it. I now believe him, as well as the bonsai person (who used to drink) who also told me this species blossomed about 25 years ago.

There is a five page article on this species in my International BONSAI magazine in the 2004/No. 1 issue. It has five black and white photos of some of the most famous and largest Dwarf Wisteria in Japan.

Even if this plant did not flower, it is great for it's bright green delicate foliage. One tip, do NOT allow this species to dry out, it only has to happen once before the plant turns crispy.

Good luck with your specimen. It's one of the largest and oldest Dwarf Wisteria I have seen and probably so because it came from the famous Domoto Nursery in Hayward CA. The two Japanese brothers who established this superb nursery were real plantsmen.

Bill