Origin
Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. concinnum (Eastw.) Price, also known as concinnum, is a species of flowering plant in the family Brassicaceae. This plant is native to California, specifically in the western United States, particularly in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the California Coast Ranges, and the Cascade Range.
Common Names
Concinnum has several common names, such as Menzies’ wallflower, Menzies' prinia, Menzies' erysimum, and Menzies' wallflower.
Uses
Concinnum is widely cultivated for its attractive and fragrant flowers, making it a popular ornamental plant. It is a hardy plant that can adapt to a range of soil types, from sandy to clay soils, and is highly tolerant of drought and heat. As a result, it is often used in gardens, borders, and rock gardens.
General Appearance
Concinnum is a perennial herb that typically grows up to 60 cm tall and 30 cm wide. The plant produces branching stems that are covered with small, ovate leaves that are green or gray-green in color. The leaves are up to 6 cm long and have an entire margin. The plant produces clusters of bright yellow or orange-yellow flowers that are 2-3 cm wide. The flowers have four petals that are arranged in a cross shape and bloom from late spring to early summer.
Light Requirements
The Erysimum menziesii ssp. concinnum typically thrives in full sun exposure or areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The plant requires an unobstructed view of the sun to grow well. It can tolerate partial shade, but its flowering will not be as generous as when it is grown under full sun.
Temperature Requirements
The Erysimum menziesii ssp. concinnum grows best in temperatures that range between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant is considered cold-hardy and can tolerate winter coldness and summertime warmth. Though the plant can tolerate frost, it is best to avoid planting it in areas that experience extended periods of freezing temperatures continuously as this may harm the root system.
Soil Requirements
The plant should be grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires soil with a pH level of between 5.0 and 8.0 and is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy soils and clay. However, it prefers soils that are slightly acidic.
Cultivation Methods
Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. concinnum (Eastw.) Price, also known as Menzies' wallflower, is a native plant in California that thrives in coastal and foothills regions. This plant species prefers a well-draining soil type that is slightly alkaline. It requires full to partial sun exposure and optimal temperature between 50°F and 80°F. Menzies' wallflower is propagated through seeds or cuttings, and it is often transplanted into a garden or container after the last frost in spring or early fall.
Watering Needs
Although Menzies' wallflower is a drought-resistant plant, it requires regular watering during its initial growth stages. Newly planted individuals need to be watered once a week until they are established, which could take up to a few months. Once the roots are established, Menzies' wallflower requires watering once every two weeks. It is important to avoid overwatering, as it could lead to root rot and decreased plant health.
Fertilization
Menzies' wallflower is a light feeder and does not require heavy fertilization. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) during its growing season, which is in late winter to early summer. Applying the fertilizer once every four weeks is sufficient. It is important to avoid applying excessive fertilizer, as it may lead to the propagation of pests and diseases, which will harm the plant.
Pruning
Menzies' wallflower requires light pruning to promote lateral growth and improve plant shape. It is recommended to prune the plant in late spring, once the blooming season has ended. Pruning should involve removing dead, damaged, and diseased branches and stems. The removal of spent flowers may also promote additional blooming in the fall. It is essential to avoid overpruning, as it can negatively impact the plant's growth and future blooming cycle.
Propagation of Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. concinnum (Eastw.) Price
Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. concinnum (Eastw.) Price, commonly known as Menzies' wallflower, is a California native perennial plant that can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the easiest and most common method for propagating Erysimum menziesii subspecies concinnum. Seeds should be collected in late spring or early summer, when the seed pods have ripened and turned brown. The seeds can be stored in a dry and cool place until they are ready to be used.
Before sowing the seeds, they should be stratified for two to three weeks to improve germination rates. Stratification can be done by placing the seeds in a plastic bag with some damp sand in the refrigerator. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in containers filled with a well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist. The seeds usually germinate within one to two weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Erysimum menziesii subspecies concinnum can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about four to six inches long and taken from non-flowering shoots.
The lower leaves should be removed, leaving only a few leaves at the top. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a rooting medium made of sand and peat moss. Keep the cuttings moist and in a shaded area until they form roots. After a few weeks, the cuttings can be transplanted into containers filled with a well-draining potting mix and placed in a sunny location.
Propagation by Division
Erysimum menziesii subspecies concinnum can also be propagated by division. This method is best done in the spring or fall. Gently dig up the plant and separate the roots into several sections using a sharp knife or shovel. Each section should have some roots and several shoots.
The sections should be planted in containers filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and in a shaded area until the plants re-establish themselves. After a few weeks, the plants can be transplanted into the ground or a larger container.
Disease Management
Erysimum menziesii ssp. concinnum is susceptible to a few common diseases that can negatively impact its growth and survival. Here are some of the diseases that you should watch out for:
- Clubroot: Clubroot is a fungal disease that can cause stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of plant leaves. To prevent clubroot, avoid planting in areas with high soil moisture and maintain adequate soil pH.
- Blackleg: Blackleg is a bacterial disease that can attack the stem and roots of the plant. This disease can cause severe damage to the plant resulting in its death. To prevent blackleg, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can cause brown, irregular-shaped lesions on the leaves and stems of the plant. To prevent anthracnose, avoid high humidity levels and ensure adequate air circulation around the plant.
If you notice any signs of disease on your plant, it is important to take action immediately to prevent further spread. Remove any infected plant parts and discard them away from the plant. You can also apply a fungicide as a preventative measure, following the product instructions carefully.
Pest Management
Erysimum menziesii ssp. concinnum can also be a target for certain pests that can damage the plant. Here are some common pests and how you can manage them:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can suck the sap from the plant and cause damage to the leaves and stems. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Cabbage Worms: Cabbage worms are the caterpillar stage of some species of moths. These pests can cause significant damage by consuming the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage cabbage worms, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural insecticide.
- Snails and Slugs: Snails and slugs can also be a problem, especially in wet environments. They can cause damage by chewing holes in the plant leaves and stems. To manage snails and slugs, you can use traps or repellents. You can also remove them manually or use iron phosphate baits as a last resort.
It is important to regularly monitor your plant for pests and take action immediately if you notice any signs of infestation. You can also use preventative measures, like companion planting or regular cleaning to keep pests away from your plant.
