This rare species, commonly known as tree wisteria, is native to the grasslands of southern Africa. A member of the Legume family, this tree can handle the heat and tolerates light freezes. However, it is a moderate water use plant and should be protected from wind. It can grow up to 50 feet tall with impressive green foliage, but what really sets this tree apart is its “true blue” flower color. Blue is a pretty rare color in plants, and tree wisteria is the Arboretum’s only blue flowering tree. As the only member of its genus ‘Bolusanthus,’ this tree is actually listed as protected, meaning cutting or removing it in the wild is prohibited. Because of its rare nature, rare color, and rare beauty, the Arboretum is proud to be home to several specimens.
