Glicina americana alba - Wisteria macrostachya 'Clara Mack' (flori parfumate)

Wisteria macrostachya 'Clara Mack' is a rare and spectacular variety of American wisteria, valued for its fragrant white flowers and elegant appearance. This vigorous climbing plant, native to North America, is ideal for decorating pergolas, arches, or fences, offering a remarkable floral display in late spring and early summer.

Flower appearance

The flowers are grouped in hanging clusters (racemes), measuring 15-30 cm long, shorter than those of other wisteria species but very attractive. Each cluster consists of small, white, pea-shaped flowers that open gradually. Unlike Japanese or Chinese wisterias, which have predominantly violet or blue flowers, 'Clara Mack' stands out with its pure white color, sometimes with slight cream or pale green shades. These flowers emit a sweet and delicate fragrance, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The main blooming period is late spring to early summer (May-June), and under certain conditions, it may produce a weaker second bloom towards the end of summer.

Growth characteristics

• Height: Grows up to 4-8 meters, being more compact than other wisterias, making it suitable for smaller gardens or urban spaces.
• Foliage: The leaves are compound, with 9-15 leaflets of bright green that turn golden-yellow in autumn, adding extra visual interest.
• Stems: The woody stems twist clockwise and require a sturdy support to bear the plant’s weight.

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers full sun for abundant flowering but also tolerates partial shade.
• Soil: Needs well-drained, fertile soils with neutral or slightly acidic pH; does not tolerate overly wet soils.
• Watering: Requires regular watering in the first years to establish roots but becomes moderately drought-tolerant once mature.
• Hardiness: Very hardy, withstanding temperatures down to -30°C (USDA zones 4-9), making it ideal for colder climates.

Care

• Pruning: To control growth and encourage flowering, regular pruning is recommended. After the main bloom, new shoots are cut back to 5-6 buds, and in winter shortened to 2-3 buds.
• Fertilizing: A phosphorus-rich fertilizer applied in spring promotes flowering; excess nitrogen should be avoided as it encourages leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Origin

Particularities

Unlike other wisterias, 'Clara Mack' tends to bloom at a younger age, offering young gardens a quick floral display. Its autumn foliage and the intense scent of its flowers also add aesthetic and sensory value throughout the season.