Wallflower (Erysimum) Seeds

• Wallflower
• The Wallflower Plant
• How to Sow Wallflower
• How to Grow Wallflower
• Growing Tips for Wallflower
• Diseases and Pests of Wallflower
• Uses and Curiosities of Wallflower

Wallflower

Wallflower (Erysimum), also known as perennial stock, is a genus of the Brassicaceae family comprising around 200 species of annuals, biennials and perennials. Wallflower is a different plant from common Stock (Matthiola incana), despite sharing a similar common name.

The Wallflower Plant

Wallflower has a bushy, compact habit, with upright stems reaching 30-80 cm depending on species and cultivar. The leaves of wallflower are lance-shaped, narrow, dark green or greyish-blue. The flowers, gathered in dense terminal clusters, have four petals and colors ranging from yellow to orange, purple to mauve.

How to Sow Wallflower

Sow wallflower in spring or late summer, in trays or directly outdoors, in well-drained soil. Cover the seeds lightly and keep moist until germination, which takes 15-20 days.

How to Grow Wallflower

Wallflower prefers full sun and well-drained soil, even poor soil. It is drought tolerant once established and many species withstand moderate frost. Protect wallflower from excessive moisture, which favors root rot.

Growing Tips for Wallflower

To prolong wallflower's flowering, regularly remove spent blooms. After flowering, prune the faded stems of wallflower to encourage new shoots and keep the plant compact.

Diseases and Pests of Wallflower

Wallflower is mainly prone to root rot in poorly drained soil. The leaves can be damaged by cutworm larvae and other leaf-mining insects typical of Brassicaceae.

Uses and Curiosities of Wallflower

Wallflower is ideal for rock gardens, sunny borders, pots and wall crevices. Its fragrant flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it a valuable choice for pollinator-friendly gardens.