In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Erysimum plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.
Erysimum make up a large genus of plants that can be hardy annual, hardy biennial, or hardy perennials in nature. They can range from 15 cm to about a meter (6 to 40 inches) in size.
They are very similar to Cheiranthus true wallflowers, hence some of their common names.
Some names for Erysimum include Alpine Wallflower, Coastal Wallflower, Siberian Wallflower, and Blister cress.
Erysimum capitatum - Western Wallflower by Miguel Vieira
They have foliage that is lance like. Plants bloom in the spring, with yellow, purple, or orange four petaled flowers.
Depending on the species, they can be used in both rock gardens or in the border.
Some of the latin names of these plants include Erysimum cheiri, Erysimum cheiranthoides, Erysimum linifolium, and Erysimum allionii.
Erysimum asperum - Prairie Rocket Wallflower by Photogramma1.
Erysimum capitatum (Sanddune wallflower / Western wallflower / Prairie rocket), photograph by Matt Lavin; CC.
Erysimum cheiri (Wallflower), picture by Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project; CC.
Erysimum repandum (Spreading wallflower / Spreading treacle mustard / Bushy wallflower), Image by Radu Chibzii; CC.
Erysimum linifolium (Alpine wall flower), photograph by Forest and Kim Starr; CC.
Erysimum 'Bowles Mauve' Cultivar photograph by Leonora (Ellie) Enking; CC.
Erysimum 'Winter Joy' Cultivar photograph by Valleybrook Gardens; CC.
Erysimum 'Winter orchid' Cultivar photograph by Valleybrook Gardens; CC.
It depends on the species as to when the Erysimum seeds should be planted out:
1. Annuals: Sow seeds in Autumn or spring.
2. Biennials: Start in spring, move in autumn.
3. Perennials Spring or Autumn
Seeds should be planted at a depth of about 7 mm (1/4 inch) into a sunny part of the garden that has good drainage.
They usually take about two to four weeks to germinate. Wallflowers and other Erysimum members like a dry soil of pH 5 to 8.
Once growing you should care for Erysimum wallflowers by deadheading after flowering. Provide them with a mulching in the Autumn.
If you require more plants then cuttings should be took in the spring; as Erysimum plants self seed this may not be necessary.
The Erysimum genus consists of about 180 species.
Yes, Erysimum, known as Wallflowers, are popular bedding and container plants with a wonderful spring fragrance.
Erysimum cheiri (Common Wallflower) and Erysimum 'Bowles's Mauve' are often grown by gardeners.
Yes, many Erysimum species, especially the Wallflowers, are known for their delightful fragrance.
Erysimum prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Currently, Erysimum is not considered invasive in the USA.
Remove Erysimum by uprooting the plant, ensuring to remove all roots to prevent regrowth.
The Erysimum genus, commonly known as Wallflower, includes about 180 species of flowering plants native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. These annuals or perennials produce clusters of fragrant, often brightly colored flowers from spring to early summer.
Erysimum plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They can be grown from seeds or cuttings. With their long flowering period and rich colors, they are excellent for adding vibrancy to borders, containers, or rock gardens. They also attract butterflies and are resistant to deer and rabbits.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Erysimum plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ Brassicaceae growing guides: How to grow Sea kale, Thuja occidentalis, Parsnip and Iberis plants.