Invasive Weeds in Georgia

Evans, C.W., C.T. Bargeron, D.J. Moorhead & G.K. Douce. 2005. The Bugwood Network, The University of Georgia.

Non-native Wisterias

Wisteria sinensis (Sims) DC.

Wisteria floribunda (Willd.) DC.

Non-native wisterias are deciduous woody vines capable of growing to 70 feet long. Stems can be large (10 inches in diameter) with smooth, tight gray to white bark. Alternate leaves are pinnately compound. Leaflets are tapered at the tip with wavy edges. Lavender, pink or white flowers are fragrant, very showy, and abundant and occur as dangling clusters. Seed are in a flattened bean-like pod.

The non-native wisterias are native to China and Japanese. They were first introduced into America around 1830. They have been planted widely as ornamentals. Currently, the non-native wisterias are found throughout the eastern United States and are widespread in Georgia.

Non-native wisteria invasions often occur around previous plantings. They can occur on a variety of soil conditions, from wet to dry. Non-native wisterias can displace native vegetation and kill trees and shrubs by girdling them. They have the ability to change the structure of a forest by killing trees and altering the light availability to the forest floor. Reproduction occurs both by runners and water dispersed seeds.

Recommended herbicide for control:
Foliar spray – Tordon 101, Tordon K, Transline, or glyphosate

Photo by James R. Allison, Georgia DNR