Large-flowered Wallflower

erysimum grandiflorum

Also known as: ["Wallflower","Cheiranthus grandiflorus"]

Family: Brassicaceae Genus: Erysimum Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant known for its vibrant, fragrant flowers that bloom in spring and early summer.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Brassicales
Family: Brassicaceae
Genus: Erysimum
Botanical Name: Erysimum grandiflorum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near large windows with direct sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).

Use a cactus or succulent mix as base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F/10–24°C); thrives in cooler climates.

Avoid placing near heat sources; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer

Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rate.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers.

Tools

Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to frost.

Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move containers indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid sudden temperature drops.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer label; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Erysimum grandiflorum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, which can impair photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Erysimum grandiflorum is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced nutrient uptake and plant vitality.

Leaf spots on Erysimum grandiflorum are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Erysimum grandiflorum due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Erysimum grandiflorum. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing loss of coordination
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access this plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Erysimum grandiflorum can lead to gastrointestinal upset and systemic toxicity due to the presence of glucosinolates. These compounds can disrupt normal cellular functions and cause significant distress.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from this plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Humans
Toxic

Erysimum grandiflorum contains glucosinolates and other toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with metabolic processes and can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness weakness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Erysimum grandiflorum be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.

Q: Does Erysimum grandiflorum attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its fragrant flowers.

Q: Is Erysimum grandiflorum toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, so it should be kept out of reach of pets.

Quick Reference
Family: Brassicaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","fragrance lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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