The wallflower, commonly known as Erysimum cheiri (formerly often referred to as Cheiranthus cheiri), is a colourful spring flower frequently found in sunny, dry spots such as old walls and rocky slopes. The plant is known for its warm shades of yellow, orange, and reddish-brown, and has been used in gardens for centuries due to its early and rich blooming. Thanks to its resilient character and ability to grow in poor soil, the wallflower has secured a permanent place in both wild nature and ornamental gardens.

Sowing and growing wallflower

The wallflower, Cheiranthus cheiri, is originally native to the Mediterranean region, particularly Southern Europe and parts of Western Asia. From there, the plant has spread over the centuries, partly because it is so highly resistant to dry, warm, and stony conditions. As early as the Middle Ages, the wallflower was cultivated in monastery gardens and later in ornamental gardens. The plant became popular in Europe due to its early spring blooming and the strong, often spicy scent of its flowers. Today, it is primarily known as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The wallflower is usually a biennial and grows best in sunny spots with well-draining soil. It is frequently used to add color to walls, rock gardens, or borders during a period when many other plants are not yet in bloom.

When sowing wallflower?

The wallflower can be sown in late spring or early summer, from May to July, allowing the plant to grow in its first year and bloom the following spring. The seeds can be sown directly outdoors in a sunny, well-draining spot. Indoor sowing can be done in March or April in pots with seed-starting mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep the ground moist but not wet to stimulate proper germination. After cultivation, the young plants are transplanted to their permanent location.

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Which Position and what kind of soil for Wallflowers?

The wallflower grows best in a sunny and warm location, preferably against a wall, in a rock garden, or in a border. The plant loves sheltered, sunny spots. Regarding the soil, the wallflower prefers well-draining, lime-rich, and somewhat dry ground. Heavy, wet clay soil is less suitable, as the roots can quickly rot under those conditions.

How to care for your wallflower plants?

The wallflower is a fairly easy plant to care for, as long as it is in a suitable location. This means a sunny, warm spot with well-draining soil, as it does not like wet feet. Watering is usually only necessary during long dry spells. During growth in spring, some fertilizer can optionally be applied. Beware of over-fertilization, as this can reduce blooming. Remove faded flowers to extend the blooming period and keep the plant looking tidy. In winter, the plant is reasonably hardy, but in wet or cold spots, some protection or a sheltered location is recommended.

Is wallflower bee and/or butterfly friendly?

Not the most insect-friendly plant, but the flowers do produce nectar and therefore mainly attract bees and hoverflies, especially in early spring when few other flowering plants are available. Some butterflies may also be attracted to them.
Due to its early blooming, the wallflower is highly valuable because it flowers precisely during a period when pollinators need food while very little is available. This makes the wallflower a good addition to an insect-friendly garden, provided it is combined with other nectar plants that bloom later in the season.

Wallflower in the vegetable garden?

The wallflower is non-edible and can even be slightly toxic. However, the plant can be of added value in a vegetable garden because it blooms early and attracts early pollinators, such as bees and hoverflies. This is naturally beneficial for the pollination of early vegetable crops as well. The flowers can also be used in bouquets.

Is wallflower edible and/or medicinal?

The wallflower is non-edible, and little is known about its medicinal properties. The plant is slightly toxic. It is important to wear gloves or to wash your hands thoroughly after contact with the plant.

Please note, we at Dutch Garden Seeds do not give medical advice. Always ask a professional if and how the plant can be used medicinally.

Wallflower seeds in our collection?

We offer wallflower seeds from the brand 'Buzzy Seeds' in our product range.

Tips for sowing Wallflowers

• Combine the plant with spring-flowering bulbs, such as daffodils and tulips, to achieve a longer blooming period in the garden.

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