Fernleaf Wallflower
erysimum scoparium
Also known as: ["Scoparius Wallflower","Canary Islands Wallflower"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Canary Islands, known for its slender stems and fragrant yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Erysimum |
| Botanical Name: | Erysimum scoparium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, coastal garden, or sunny border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on plant size and desired shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates. Adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure proper ventilation indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct indoor light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a cactus mix as base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat or frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop in fall/winter; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems by one-third to one-half; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; blackened leaves or stem dieback in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; use frost cloth or mulch for protection; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid wetting foliage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Erysimum scoparium may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The glucosinolates in the plant can cause digestive upset, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Erysimum scoparium by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of glucosinolates. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicErysimum scoparium contains glucosinolates which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Erysimum scoparium suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, but it requires well-draining soil and full sun to thrive.
Q: How often should Erysimum scoparium be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Erysimum scoparium attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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