ERYSIMUM

Formerly listed under Cheiranthus, this genus consists of 80 or so annuals, perennials, and subshrubs. Erysimum species are found mainly in Europe, western Asia, and western North America, and are popularly known as wallflowers. They have simple narrow leaves, are mainly evergreen, and range from rockery dwarfs to medicum-sized shrubs. Flower stems, tall in the larger species, appear mainly over spring and summer, and also in winter in mild climates. The heads carry dense clusters of small 4-petalled blooms that are often richly fragrant. The petals are usually yellow but may also be orange, red, or mauve. The old genus name, Cheiranthus, meaning "hand-flower", refers to the custom dating to the Middle Ages when the sweetly scented flowers were often carried in the hand at festivals and events.


CULTIVATION


Wallflowers like cool summers and mild winters. Plant in a sunny open position in moist well-drained soil. If perennials become woody they should be cut back hard.Annuals are raised from seed; perennials are propagated from cuttings of non-flowering stems.


Top Tip


Choose evergreen long-flowering wallflowers for container planting. The container can be moved around the garden wherever color and/or fragrance is needed.