How to Grow Kingswood Torch
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Kingswood Torch
Erysimum cheiri 'Kingswood Torch'
flowerKingswood Torch is a striking biennial wallflower cultivar known for its vibrant orange-red flowers with deep crimson centers. It produces dense spikes of fragrant, four-petaled blooms that attract pollinators and add bold color to borders and containers. This ornamental is valued for its long flowering season and ability to self-seed in favorable conditions.
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Example Kingswood Torch timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Kingswood Torch
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 Kingswood Torch blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8; hardy annual to short-lived perennial depending on climate
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Get my Kingswood Torch timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-4 weeksSmall cotyledons emerge within 10-14 days; develops true leaves with characteristic elongated shape
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light to prevent leggy growth. Thin seedlings to proper spacing early.
Vegetative Growth (Year 1)
4-6 monthsLow rosette of gray-green, slightly fuzzy leaves develops; plant remains compact and ground-hugging
Water moderately. Remove any flower buds that form to encourage root and leaf development. Mulch lightly after establishment.
Overwintering
2-4 monthsPlant goes dormant or semi-dormant; rosette persists through winter in most zones
Reduce watering in cool season. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent winter rot. Provide light mulch in zones 3-5 for protection.
Flowering (Year 2)
6-10 weeks peak bloomTall flower spikes emerge from rosette, reaching 18-24 inches; dense clusters of orange-red and crimson bicolor florets open sequentially
Deadhead spent flowers to extend blooming period. Support tall stems if needed in windy locations. Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer.
Seed Production & Decline
4-6 weeksFlowers fade to seed pods; plant begins to decline after extended flowering period
Allow some flowers to set seed for self-sowing. Remove plant after flowering unless saving seed. New seedlings may emerge for next season.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray, hand-picking of caterpillars
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Row covers for young plants, neem oil, insecticidal soap, companion planting with catnip
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Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, sulfur spray, remove infected leaves
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Ensure excellent drainage, avoid waterlogging, remove and discard infected plants
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryKingswood Torch flowers are edible and add a slightly peppery, mustard-like flavor to salads and garnishes. The striking orange-red blooms make an attractive, colorful addition to fresh dishes and provide a delicate spice note. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe tall, dense flower spikes are excellent for cutting and arranging in bouquets, bringing vibrant color and fragrance to indoor displays. They mix well with spring bulbs and other cottage garden flowers. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeKingswood Torch flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, providing an important early spring nectar source. The plant supports pollinator populations during the critical early season when food is scarce. [source]
Dried Flower Crafts
CraftThe seed pods and dried stems have ornamental value and can be used in dried arrangements, wreaths, and botanical crafts. The papery seed pods develop interesting texture as they mature. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cut flower spikes in early morning when fully open for fresh arrangements; stems last 7-10 days in water. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Allow final flowers to develop seed pods if self-seeding is desired; collect seed pods when dry and brown for storage.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Wallflowers earned their common name because they traditionally grew on old stone walls and castle ramparts across Europe, thriving in crevices with minimal soil.
- 🌱 Kingswood Torch is named after a historic estate in Warwickshire, England, reflecting its origin in British horticulture and heritage cultivar breeding.
- 🌱 The flowers emit a sweet, spicy fragrance particularly strong on warm days and in evening hours, making them popular for cottage gardens where the scent can be enjoyed from seating areas.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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