Wisteria floribunda ‘Macrobotrys’
A Spectacular Japanese Wisteria with Extra-Long Cascading Blooms
Wisteria floribunda ‘Macrobotrys’, also known as the Silky Wisteria, is one of the most show-stopping varieties of Japanese wisteria. Renowned for its exceptionally long racemes, often reaching up to 1 metre in length, this vigorous climber brings breathtaking drama and romance to pergolas, archways, and large walls. The richly scented, lilac to violet flowers appear in great abundance in late spring, creating a dazzling curtain of bloom that sways gently in the breeze.
Key Features
Extra-Long Flower Clusters
The standout feature of ‘Macrobotrys’ is its extraordinarily long flower racemes, which can grow to 90–100cm (35–39 inches) in ideal conditions — among the longest of any wisteria. The soft violet blooms are lightly scented and bloom in elegant succession from top to bottom of each cluster.
Vigorous Growth and Majestic Form
This variety is a strong-growing climber that can reach 8–10m (26–33ft) or more with support. It is ideal for covering large garden structures where its floral cascades can be properly displayed.
Scented Spring Spectacle
Flowering from late May into June, the blooms are lightly fragrant with a sweet, floral perfume. The sheer volume and length of the flowers create a dazzling spring display.
Seasonal Foliage
The bright green, pinnate leaves form a soft, feathery backdrop to the flowers and take on buttery yellow tones in autumn, adding extra seasonal interest.
Growing & Care Guide
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Position: Prefers a sunny, sheltered site for best flowering performance. A south- or west-facing wall or pergola is ideal.
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Soil: Thrives in moist, well-drained, fertile soils — slightly acidic to neutral pH preferred.
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Support: Needs sturdy structural support due to its mature size and weight of the flowers.
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Hardiness: Fully hardy across the UK.
Maintenance Tips
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Pruning: Prune twice a year — in summer (July/August) to cut back long new shoots to 5–6 buds, and in winter (January/February) to 2–3 buds to promote flowering spurs.
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Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase and during dry spells in spring and summer.
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Feeding: Apply a balanced or low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertiliser in spring to encourage flowering.
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Training: Guide main stems onto the support early, tying in shoots to establish a strong framework.
Why Grow Wisteria ‘Macrobotrys’?
If you’re looking for the ultimate wow factor in your garden, Wisteria floribunda ‘Macrobotrys’ delivers in spades. Its extraordinary floral display is unmatched in length and elegance, transforming any vertical space into a fragrant, flowering waterfall. Perfect for large pergolas, walkways, or expansive walls, this is a plant that rewards patience and care with an unforgettable spring spectacle.
Whether you’re designing a traditional garden or a more contemporary space with architectural lines, ‘Macrobotrys’ adds a timeless, romantic charm — a living curtain of colour and scent that delights year after year.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.