Erysimum capitatum , commonly known as coastal wallflower, is an attractive biennial or short-lived perennial that offers a burst of colorful flowers and attracts pollinators.

Below we detail the main characteristics and care of this charming plant:

Description:

• Coastal Wallflower is known for its upright growth habit and features dense clusters of four-petaled flowers. These flowers come in orange, yellow, or reddish hues.
• The flowering period extends from late spring to mid-summer, providing several weeks of vibrant color in the garden.
• The flowers are not only visually pleasing but also attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinators, making them a valuable addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
• Once the flowering season concludes, the flowers give way to distinctive 4-angled seed pods.
• The plant is typically short-lived, but tends to self-seed, allowing it to maintain a presence in the garden over time.
• The narrow, oblong leaves, reaching about 3 inches (7 cm) long, form basal rosettes and are also found along the stems.

Size:

• Coastal Wallflower typically grows to a height of 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) and spreads 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) wide.

Cultural requirements:

• This plant thrives in full sun and prefers dry to average, alkaline, well-drained soils. Once established, it shows good drought tolerance. It can also tolerate light shade and poor soils, which increases its adaptability.
• Coastal Wallflower is relatively easy to grow and can find a place in a variety of garden settings.

Benefits and uses:

• Coastal Wallflower’s vibrant flower clusters make it an excellent choice for wildflower gardens, especially when planted in strips or mounds.
• The plant’s natural appearance and adaptability make it suitable for rock gardens, native plant gardens, and naturalized areas where it can complement other water-efficient plants.
• As a pollinator-friendly plant, Coastal Wallflower helps support local pollinator populations.

Propagation and Maintenance:

• This plant has no major pest or disease problems, which increases its ease of cultivation.
• After the flowering season, it is advisable to wait until the seeds have matured and fallen to the ground before cutting off the spent flower stems. This allows the plant to complete its natural life cycle and potentially self-seed for future generations.
• Coastal Wallflower can be propagated by seed, which is best done in late summer or early fall.

Origins:

• Coastal Wallflower is native to western North America.

In summary, Erysimum capitatum (Coastal Wallflower) is a visually appealing, pollinator-friendly plant that offers clusters of colorful flowers from late spring to mid-summer. Its adaptable nature, tendency to self-seed, and tolerance of diverse growing conditions make it a valuable addition to gardens looking to enhance biodiversity and support pollinator populations. Whether planted in wildflower gardens, rock gardens, or naturalized areas, Coastal Wallflower’s bursts of color and pollinator attraction contribute to a vibrant and thriving garden ecosystem.