Wallflower

(Erysimum olympicum)

Wallflower (Erysimum olympicum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Erysimum olympicum, commonly known as Wallflower, is a perennial herb that can be either evergreen or deciduous, depending on the climate. It is native to rocky slopes and scrubland in Greece, where it thrives in well-drained, chalky soils. This plant typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) with a similar width of about 2 feet (0.6 meters). It forms a bushy mound of narrow, gray-green leaves, and is highly valued for its long-lasting, fragrant purple flowers that bloom profusely in spring, with continued blooming in summer and fall if deadheaded regularly.

The Wallflower is celebrated for its vibrant flowers and pleasant scent, making it a favorite for ornamental gardens, rockeries, and as a border plant. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. Erysimum olympicum prefers a sunny location but can tolerate part shade, and it adapts to a range of soil drainage conditions. While it is not particular about soil pH, it does best in neutral to alkaline soils. There are no widely recognized cultivars of this species, but it can be propagated by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings. Gardeners should be aware that it can suffer from root rot in overly moist conditions and may be short-lived, so periodic replanting may be necessary.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to rocky slopes and scrubland in Greece

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Erysimum helveticum, Erysimum olympicum,

GBIF Accepted Name: Erysimum olympicum Boiss.