How to Grow Erysimum
Erysimum
Erysimum spp.
flowerErysimum, commonly known as wallflower, is a charming flowering plant with fragrant, colorful blooms that range from yellow and orange to red, pink, and purple. These plants are beloved for their dense flower spikes and long blooming season, thriving in well-drained soils with minimal care. They are often grown as biennials or short-lived perennials, adding vibrant color to borders and rock gardens.
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Example Erysimum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Erysimum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Erysimum blooms
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Erysimum dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in cooler to moderate climates
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Seedling
2-4 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with first true leaves appearing within 1-2 weeks. Plants develop a rosette of narrow green leaves close to the ground.
Provide bright light and keep soil consistently moist. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they have 2-3 true leaves.
Rosette (First Year - Biennial)
3-5 monthsPlant establishes a low mound of narrow, slightly hairy foliage. No flowers yet; energy is directed into root and leaf development.
Water regularly during dry periods. Remove any flower buds that appear to encourage stronger growth. Mulch lightly in fall.
Flowering (Second Year - Biennial / Spring-Summer - Annual)
8-12 weeksTall flower spikes emerge, bearing dense clusters of four-petaled, fragrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, red, pink, or purple.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. Provide light fertilization monthly. Stake taller varieties if needed in windy areas.
Seed Development
4-6 weeksAfter flowering, long slender seed pods (siliques) develop and mature. Pods turn brown as seeds ripen inside.
Leave some flowers unpruned if self-seeding is desired. Collect seed pods when brown and dry for saving seeds.
Senescence
2-4 weeksPlant naturally declines after seed maturation and spreads viable seeds for the next generation.
Allow some self-seeding or remove spent plants. Clear area to prevent volunteer seedlings if not desired.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers when young, insecticidal soap, or neem oil. Minimize disturbance to plants.
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Floating row covers, handpicking caterpillars, netting, or Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
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Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, apply sulfur or fungicide if severe.
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Improve soil drainage with perlite or sand; avoid overwatering and waterlogged conditions.
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryErysimum flowers are edible with a slightly spicy, mustard-like flavor. They make an attractive, peppery garnish for salads, cheese boards, and gourmet dishes. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalHistorically used in traditional medicine for respiratory support and as a diuretic. Contains glucosinolates found in other Brassicaceae plants. [source]
Cut Flowers
HouseholdLong-lasting cut flowers ideal for spring and early summer arrangements, bouquets, and floral displays. Fragrant flower spikes add visual and aromatic interest to indoor arrangements. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeFragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Provides early season forage when few other flowers are blooming. [source]
Dried Flower Arrangements
CraftFlower spikes dry well and retain color for dried arrangements, wreaths, and crafts. Seed pods are also decorative when dried. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Erysimum is primarily grown for ornamental flowers, not harvest. Cut flower spikes for arrangements when half the flowers on the spike are open. Cut early morning for longest vase life (4-7 days). For seed collection, allow pods to dry on the plant, then clip and collect when brown.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Erysimum got the common name 'wallflower' from its historical use as a decorative plant growing on castle walls and stone structures across Europe.
- 🌱 Despite the name suggesting shyness, wallflowers are quite bold: many varieties are strongly fragrant and produce vibrant colors to attract pollinators.
- 🌱 Erysimum belongs to the Brassicaceae family (mustard family) and contains mustard oil glucosides, the same compounds that give mustard greens their characteristic peppery bite.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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