Wallflower (Erysimum cheiri)

Wallflower

Also known as: Garden wallflower

The wallflower (Erysimum cheiri) is a spindly, flowering herb with a penchant for growing in cliff crevices. It blooms in spring with an abundance of fragrant flowers that can range in shades of yellow, orange, red, purple, brown, or white. Many gardeners prefer to plant wallflower as a biennial, sowing seeds one year in order to protect the roots from a common infection known as clubfoot.

Scientific classification

Species

Wallflower (Erysimum cheiri)

Mustards, capers, and allies

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50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

Orange, Red, White, Yellow, Purple

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Wallflower

Distribution of Wallflower

Distribution Map

Wallflower is native to regions in the Mediterranean Basin. Over time, it has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia, and Australasia. It thrives in temperate zones and has adapted to a wide range of climates beyond its native range as both a naturalized and cultivated species.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Walls, cliffs and rocks.

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Wallflower is a compact, pretty flowering plant that is generally chosen as an ornamental by gardeners for its attractive blooms and long bloom time. It is also easy to care for, a plus to any gardener. It can fill beds and containers or can be mixed with other flowers. It is great in pollinator gardens as well.

Interesting Facts

This short-lived perennial and its numerous selected varieties are cultivated worldwide and highly prized as ornamental garden plants. Although wallflower originally features yellow leaves, there are varieties with white, cream, orange, orange-red maroon, brown, mauve, or purple flowers.

Name Story

Wallflower||Garden wallflower: The most common name of Erysimum cheiri is wallflower. The name was derived from the fact that Erysimum cheiri often grows on walls, cliffs, or cracks in stones. The entire genus Erysimum and some plants of the genus Cheiranthus are also reffred to as wallflowers.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Wallflower, including the following common varieties :

Wallflower 'Constant Cheer'Wallflower 'Chelsea Jacket'Wallflower 'Harpur Crewe'Wallflower 'Blood Red'

Toxicity

Wallflower poses a moderate toxicity risk to humans, dogs, and cats. Ingestion of any part of the plant can cause gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms in humans, and similar distress in pets. Vigilance is essential to prevent accidental consumption, especially in children and pets. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if pets ingest wallflower to ensure their safety and well-being.

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Care Guide for Wallflower

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Wallflower prefers moderate climates and well-drained soil, thriving with consistent moisture. Watering weekly supports its growth, particularly during its flowering phase, which demands careful hydration management to ensure robust blooms, particularly in response to seasonal rainfall.

Fertilize: For wallflower, use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season and high phosphorus formulas pre-bloom. Apply quarterly, with vigorous feeding in spring/summer, reduced in fall, and pause in winter. Precise measurement prevents over-fertilization, ensuring optimal health and vibrant blooms year-round.

Pruning: Wallflower are vibrant flowering plants that benefit from early spring or late winter pruning. Remove dead stems and spent flowers to promote growth and enhance airflow. Pruning not only encourages blooming but also prevents disease, ensuring optimal health and appearance.

Propagation: Wallflower can be effectively propagated through cuttings. Use healthy non-flowering shoots, remove lower leaves, and dip cut ends in rooting hormone. Plant in well-draining mix, keeping cuttings warm and moist, preferably in a semi-shaded area to promote root development without overheating.

Repotting: Repot wallflower every 2-3 years in spring using a slightly larger pot with well-draining soil and drainage holes. Water moderately and place in a sunny location for recovery. Adjust sunlight and watering if leaves wilt to enhance wallflower's vibrant blooms.

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Images of Wallflower

Distribution of Wallflower

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Care Guide for Wallflower

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