Glicina americana alba - Wisteria macrostachya 'Clara Mack' (flori parfumate)
Wisteria macrostachya 'Clara Mack' is a rare and spectacular variety of American wisteria , prized for its fragrant white flowers and elegant appearance. This vigorous climber, native to North America, is ideal for decorating pergolas, arches or fences, providing a special floral display in late spring and early summer.
Flower appearance
The flowers are grouped in pendulous clusters (racemes), with a length of 15-30 cm , shorter than those of other wisteria species, but extremely attractive. Each cluster is made up of small, white, pea-shaped flowers, which open gradually. Unlike Japanese or Chinese wisteria, which have predominantly purple or blue flowers, 'Clara Mack' stands out for its pure white color , sometimes with slight shades of cream or pale green. These flowers exude a sweet and delicate fragrance , attracting bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. The main flowering period is late spring to early summer (May-June) , and under certain conditions it can provide a secondary, weaker flowering 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 bright green leaflets , which turn golden yellow in fall, adding additional visual interest.
- Stems : The woody stems twist clockwise and require solid support to support the weight of the plant.
Growing conditions
- Exposure : Prefers full sun for abundant flowering, but also tolerates semi-shade.
- Soil : Needs well-drained, fertile soils with neutral or slightly acidic pH; does not tolerate excessively wet soils.
- Watering : Requires regular watering in the first few years to establish roots, but becomes moderately drought tolerant once mature.
- Hardiness : It is very hardy, withstanding temperatures down to -30°C (USDA zones 4-9), making it ideal for colder climates.
Care
- Pruning : To control growth and stimulate flowering, regular pruning is recommended. After the main flowering, new shoots are reduced to 5-6 buds , and in winter shortened to 2-3 buds .
- Fertilization : A phosphorus-rich fertilizer applied in spring promotes flowering; excess nitrogen should be avoided as it stimulates leaf growth to the detriment of flowers.
Origin
features
Unlike other wisterias, 'Clara Mack' tends to bloom at a younger age, providing young gardens with a quick floral display. Its autumn foliage and intense flower fragrance also add aesthetic and sensory value throughout the season.
In the cold season, plants enter a dormant period and are shortened.