Wallflower (Erysimum cheiri)

Also known as: Garden wallflower

The Wallflower (Erysimum cheiri) is a slender, flowering plant that often thrives in rocky crevices. It produces a profusion of fragrant flowers in spring, showcasing a variety of colors including yellow, orange, red, purple, brown, and white. Gardeners frequently grow Wallflowers as biennials, planting seeds one year to safeguard the roots from a common disease called clubfoot.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Wallflower

Lifespan

Perennial, Biennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

15 cm to 80 cm

Spread

50 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Color

Orange Red White Yellow Purple

Images of Wallflower

Quickly Identify Wallflower

Wallflowers typically have fragrant, four-petaled flowers that come in shades of yellow, orange, red, and purple. They have a bushy growth habit with narrow, lance-shaped leaves.

Scientific Classification of Wallflower

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mustards, capers, and allies

Family

Cruciferae

Genus

Wallflower

Species

Wallflower

Planting and Growing of Wallflower

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Ceramic, Plastic

How to Water Wallflower?

Erysimum cheiri prefers its soil to be consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure that the top 1-2 inches of soil dry out between waterings. You should provide around 500ml of water per watering session, making sure it penetrates deeply into the root zone.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Wallflower? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Wallflower?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Erysimum cheiri thrives in full sun to partial sun, ideally receiving 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. This range encourages vigorous blooming and healthy foliage, maximizing its ornamental appeal and robustness.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Wallflower?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

The recommended temperature range for optimal growth of Erysimum cheiri is between 60°F and 70°F. Within this range, the plant can photosynthesize and metabolize efficiently. This temperature range not only supports healthy leaf and flower development but also encourages the plant's optimal structural growth. Additionally, maintaining this range helps in maximizing the flowering period and enhancing the fragrance, leading to a more aesthetically pleasing plant.

What Soil is Best for Wallflower?

Soil type: Loam, Calcareous soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Erysimum cheiri thrives in a nutrient-dense substrate, beneficial for providing necessary elements for its vibrant blooms and lush foliage. Adequate drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot; ensuring the plant's roots receive enough oxygen promotes healthy growth. While requiring good drainage, the soil should still retain enough moisture to sustain the plant during dry spells, balancing hydration for robust health. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Wallflower?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Erysimum cheiri, a modest amount of fertilizer goes a long way. Use approximately half the recommended rate for typical flowering plants. This means that for liquid fertilizers, usually mix about 10 ml of concentrated solution with 1 liter of water. For granular or slow-release types, scatter lightly around the base of the plant, ensuring never to exceed a tablespoon per plant to avoid root burns. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Wallflower?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by using clean, sharp pruning shears. First, remove any dead or diseased stems, cutting them back to healthy tissue. If the plant becomes leggy, trim back up to one-third of the stems to encourage more compact growth. Target any overgrown stems, making cuts just above a leaf joint to spur new growth. This basic approach will keep your Erysimum cheiri thriving. Deadheading is essential for prolonging the blooming season. After the flowers fade, use your fingers or shears to snap off the spent blooms at their base. This process redirects the plant's energy from seed production back to forming new flowers, ensuring a beautiful display throughout the flowering months. Consistent deadheading can vastly improve the aesthetics and performance of your wallflowers. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Wallflower plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Start by filling the seed tray with a well-draining potting mix. Ensure it is moist but not waterlogged. This provides an ideal environment for the seeds to germinate and ensures good root development.

Distribute the seeds evenly over the surface of the soil in the seed tray. Cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil to protect them from pests and to ensure adequate coverage for proper germination.

Use a sterilized tool to take 4-6 inch cuttings from the healthy sections of a mature plant. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance root formation.

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How to Repot Wallflower plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

The ideal time to repot Erysimum cheiri is when you notice roots spiraling at the base of the pot or growth starts declining. If the plant appears root-bound or water drains too quickly, it's time for repotting, preferably during spring or autumn when growth conditions are optimal and the plant can settle into its new environment without additional stress.

Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. It should have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Opting for terracotta pots can also be beneficial, as they allow the soil to breathe, enhancing drainage and airflow around the roots, thus promoting a healthier root environment.

Select a well-draining potting mix that mimics the plant's natural growing conditions. A blend that contains peat, sand, and organic matter ensures sufficient aeration and nutrient availability. This type of soil mix prevents water retention, reducing the risk of overwatering while providing the necessary nutrients for strong growth and vibrant blooms.

Toxicity of Wallflower

Is Wallflower toxic to humans?

Wallflower exhibits a moderate toxicity level to humans, with the entire plant being capable of inducing poisoning when ingested. Upon consumption, individuals might exhibit various symptoms associated with poisoning, which could encompass gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Furthermore, symptoms may progress to neurological effects like headaches, dizziness, or even more serious central nervous system reactions. Although the specific toxic compounds in wallflower are not identified, every part of the plant—including leaves, stems, flowers, and roots—should be regarded as potentially harmful if ingested. Accidental consumption is the main concern, as wallflower usually does not get recognized as an edible species. It's crucial to exercise caution around wallflower to avert unintentional ingestion, particularly by children or pets attracted to its vibrant colors.

Is Wallflower toxic to cat?

Wallflower, often referred to simply as Wallflower, carries a moderate risk of toxicity for cats. Should a cat consume any portion of this plant, which is toxic throughout, it may exhibit symptoms of discomfort or illness. Poisoning usually happens when a cat mistakenly ingests portions of wallflower. Pet owners must vigilantly observe their cats for any unusual behaviors or signs of distress, as these may indicate possible poisoning. If ingestion is suspected, it is essential to rapidly seek veterinary care to guarantee the safety and health of the cat.

Is Wallflower toxic to dog?

The plant species known as wallflower is recognized for its moderate toxicity to dogs. If ingested accidentally, this plant can poison dogs. All parts of the wallflower are toxic, meaning that any portion can endanger canine health. Therefore, pet owners must remain vigilant and ensure that their dogs do not have access to this plant. Signs of poisoning in dogs may manifest as gastrointestinal issues, vomiting, diarrhea, or more severe reactions depending on the quantity consumed. It is essential for dog owners to keep a close watch on their pets and seek immediate veterinary assistance if they suspect their dog has eaten wallflower. Timely treatment at a veterinary clinic is critical for the recovery of an affected dog.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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