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vine

Sherman's Ghost Kudzu

Pueraria lobata 'Sherman's Ghost'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Vine

Height

720 inches

Width

720 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Pueraria lobata, or kudzu, is a deciduous, aggressively spreading, climbing vine with trifoliate leaves. In late summer, it produces fragrant, purple, pea-like flowers. It is listed as a noxious weed and is highly invasive in many regions, capable of smothering other vegetation. The 'Sherman's Ghost' cultivar is noted for its variegated foliage with large splashes of creamy-white against a green background. While ornamental, it retains the extreme vigor and aggressive, invasive habit of the parent species and should be planted with extreme caution.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides lush greenery and fragrant purple flowers, enhancing vertical garden spaces.
Practical UsesActs as a natural shade cover and erosion control on slopes.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, contributing to local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Provide trellis support for climbing growth.
  4. Water deeply once a week during dry periods.
  5. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly in growing season.
  6. Prune in late winter to control size and shape.

Pro Tip

Use a sturdy trellis and ensure well-drained soil for vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune to manage vine spread
  • Feed with balanced fertilizer monthly
  • Support with a strong trellis

Don't

  • Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
  • Allow vine to become unmanaged
  • Use chemical pesticides excessively
  • Plant in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plant
Propagate
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vine-covered pergolasWildflower bordersScreening hedge

Companion Plants

Clematis Morning Glories Sweet Peas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sherman's Ghost Kudzu questions

What zones can Sherman's Ghost Kudzu grow in?

Sherman's Ghost Kudzu is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sherman's Ghost Kudzu deer resistant?

Yes — Sherman's Ghost Kudzu is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sherman's Ghost Kudzu bloom?

Sherman's Ghost Kudzu typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sherman's Ghost Kudzu need full sun?

Sherman's Ghost Kudzu does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Sherman's Ghost Kudzu drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sherman's Ghost Kudzu handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Sherman's Ghost Kudzu with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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