Question: I understand that there are different types of wisteria, and that there is one species that does not send out uncontrolled runners but is more easily contained with annual pruning. I had a wisteria that was awful and even with vigorous pruning it sent runners out everywhere! I do not want to have that happen in my new house.

Answer: The most vigorous wisteria are the Asiatic species (Chinese and Japanese wisteria) and perhaps you've based your observations on these plants. A less vigorous plant is Wisteria frutescens, or American wisteria. However, even these vines will grow to 30', so you'll still need to prune judiciously. And be sure to provide a sturdy trellis or other support. If you want a vine with more modest growth, you may want to choose another flowering vine, such as clematis, instead of wisteria for your new landscape.