Alpine Wallflower
erysimum jugicola
Also known as: ["Alpine Wallflower"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to alpine regions, known for its bright yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","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 jugicola |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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 some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove old growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon partial shade if grown outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit for better drainage.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips and cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or weak stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Erysimum jugicola prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring moisture reaches the root ball without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or yellowing leaves in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below freezing.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move indoors in freezing conditions; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water early in the day to avoid heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Erysimum jugicola. The glucosinolates present can cause digestive upset, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Erysimum jugicola can 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 jugicola 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 jugicola suitable for beginners?
A: No, it requires moderate care and is better suited for enthusiasts.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is it drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it is adapted to dry conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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