Wattakaka sinensis Variegata - Chinese Wisteria

The Wattakaka sinensis 'Variegata' is a vigorous climbing vine, very unique and uncommon, especially in this variegated form. Its large heart-shaped leaves are green with wide cream variegation. Highly decorative, they are accompanied by a beautiful white-pink flowering in June-July, which is very fragrant. This climbing vine thrives in full sun, or possibly in partial shade in hot climates, in humus-rich soil that is moist but well-drained. Well-adapted to temperate climates, it is moderately hardy.

The Wattakaka was classified in the Asclepiadaceae family, where it coexisted with the Stephanotis floribunda, another climbing vine with a delightful fragrance. This cosmopolitan family included numerous climbing vines, bushes, herbaceous plants, and even trees, mainly in warm, subtropical to tropical regions. This former family is now downgraded to a subfamily within the Apocynaceae family, rich in poisonous beauties, such as Periwinkle or Oleander. The Wattakaka itself has been renamed Dregea, its current name, although its former name is still commonly used out of habit. The climbing stems have rapid growth and can cling to a trellis or tree on their own. Slightly less vigorous than the green-leaved species, this variegated form still grows up to about 5m (16ft) in height and 2.50m (8ft) in width. Deciduous, its foliage is highly decorative with irregular variegation mixing cream-white and green in different shades, so that no leaf looks exactly like its neighbour. Attached to the stems by a rather long petiole, they measure 5 to 10cm (2 to 4in) in length.

The flowering is the second charming feature of this extraordinary plant. The umbels of flowers, 8 to 9cm (3 to 4in) in diameter, appear in late spring, early summer. They consist of about twenty small waxy flowers with 5 white petals tinged with pink, giving them a delicate appearance and a delightful fragrance. Some perceive orange blossom scents, while others sense a scent of privet. A true sensory pleasure that also attracts pollinators, as these charming flowers are highly nectar-rich. The fruits, arranged in pairs, form green horns about 10cm (4in) long, filled with silky seeds that are carried away by the wind.

This climbing vine thrives in full sun but not excessively hot conditions. In hot climates, it is preferable to plant it in partial shade. It prefers humus-rich soils with some moisture, but well-drained to avoid stagnant water, especially in winter. Indeed, Dregea is somewhat sensitive to cold, withstanding temperatures down to -8°C (17.6°F), or -10°C (32 or 14°F) once well rooted and in a location sheltered from cold winds. It can survive in the Orléans region, for example, but may suffer more in the east. In cold climates, it is possible to protect the stump with a good mulch to ensure its recovery. If necessary, prune back this Wattakaka in late winter to remove dry stems. This is why winter drainage is very important, as excess water intensifies the effect of freezing. On the other hand, it is very adaptable to the soil's chemical nature and can tolerate both limestone and moderately acidic soils.

Stylish and romantically charming with its delicate flowers, the Wattakaka will delight enthusiasts of unique plants. There is no doubt that you will surprise your visitors and friends, as few people are familiar with this plant, especially in its variegated version. To accentuate its exotic appeal, you can pair it with the Passiflora caerulea, with its sculptural tropical-looking flowers. Another interesting combination is to plant a Clematis armandii alongside it, a Clematis with equivalent hardiness but with decorative evergreen foliage and a highly fragrant white flowering, early (March-April), which will precede the flowering of the Wattakaka. And to prolong the season of scents, indulge in the Lonicera periclymenum 'Serotina', a Woodbine with white and red highly graphic flowers, endowed with a powerful fragrance that will take over from the Wattakaka's scent until autumn.