Erysimum siliculosum, commonly known as Diogenes’ Lantern, is an evergreen biennial or perennial herb inaccurately described as native to deserts. It is native to rocky slopes and steppe regions in Russia, Kazakhstan, and the Caucasus. This plant typically grows to a height of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) and a width of 2 feet (0.6 meters), featuring narrow, lance-shaped leaves and upright stems. The bright yellow flowers bloom in clusters from spring to fall, adding a long-lasting splash of color to the garden. The flowers are particularly showy, making it a favorite among pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Diogenes’ Lantern is valued for its extended flowering period and vibrant yellow blooms, which can enliven rock gardens, borders, and xeriscaping designs. It is well-suited to urban planting due to its tolerance of poor soils and its ability to thrive in full sun with medium water requirements. The plant prefers well-drained soils and is drought-tolerant once established. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in humid conditions. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding, which can be prolific under ideal conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0