Origin
Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. menziesii, commonly known as Menzies' wallflower, is a perennial plant that is native to the western coast of North America - from British Columbia to California.
Common Names
In addition to Menzies' wallflower, this plant is also referred to as Menzies' erysimum or Menzies' prairie rocket.
Uses
Menzies' wallflower is primarily used for ornamental purposes because of its attractive purple to lavender flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The plant can be grown in containers or in garden beds and borders. It is also a great plant for attracting bees and other pollinators to the garden. Additionally, the plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes - the dried leaves can be used to make a tea that is believed to help relieve headaches and other minor ailments.
General Appearance
Menzies' wallflower typically grows to be about 2 feet tall, with slender stems and narrow leaves that are a bluish-green color. The plant produces numerous clusters of small, four-petaled flowers that range in color from deep purple to lavender. The flowers have a sweet scent that attracts bees and other pollinators. Menzies' wallflower is a hardy plant that can tolerate dry conditions and prefers full sun or light shade.
Light
Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. menziesii, commonly known as Menzies' wallflower, prefers full sun to partial shade. This plant can grow in direct sunlight, especially in areas with cooler temperatures, but it may appreciate some afternoon shade during hotter months.
Temperature
Milder conditions are ideal for Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. menziesii. This plant thrives in areas with mild temperatures with an average annual temperature range between 12.8°C and 15.6°C. It can tolerate lower temperatures and can survive in areas with a minimum temperature of -7.2°C. However, it does not do well in hot climates.
Soil Requirements
Menzies' wallflower grows well in well-draining soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH. This plant does not do well in heavy, waterlogged soils. In areas with heavier soils, amending them with organic matter can provide better drainage and ensure that the plant thrives to its full potential. A mixture of clay and loam soils is ideal for growing Menzies' wallflower.
Cultivation Methods
Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. menziesii, commonly known as Menzies' wallflower, is a fast-growing perennial plant native to California. It prefers to grow in coastal grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands. This plant is drought-resistant and prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6 to 8. It needs full sun to perform its best and can tolerate some shade.
Watering Needs
Watering is essential during the establishment of the plant, but once it takes root, it requires minimal watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to avoid watering it too frequently. During the hot summer months, it's better to water the plant deeply and less frequently than to water it lightly and frequently.
Fertilization
Erysimum menziesii doesn't require a lot of fertilizer. In fact, too much fertilizer can cause it to grow leggy with fewer flowers. It's best to fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. You can also add a layer of organic compost around the base of the plant to help improve soil quality.
Pruning
Pruning Erysimum menziesii can be done to encourage new growth and a bushier habit. This plant can become woody, so it's best to cut it back every few years to rejuvenate it. Pruning spent flowers and cutting back stems by a third after flowering can help to promote a second round of blooms. You can also prune it after the winter to remove any dead or damaged growth.
Propagation of Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. menziesii
Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. menziesii is a California native perennial herb that can be propagated by seed and vegetative methods.
Seed propagation
Erysimum menziesii can be seeded directly into the ground in the fall or early spring when the soil is moist. Seeds are usually germinated within 2-4 weeks. Seeds can also be started indoors 6-8 weeks prior to transplanting. The seeds should be sown on the surface of a soil-less mix and covered with a thin layer of vermiculite. Placed the container in a warm, bright location but avoid direct sunlight. Mist regularly for moisture but do not overwater the seeds as they are susceptible to damping off. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, transplant them to individual pots to grow on before transplanting them to their final location in the garden.
Vegetative propagation
Erysimum menziesii can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the summer. Cuttings approximately 10 cm long should be taken from the tips of the plant and should have at least 2-3 leaf nodes. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a soil-less mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright location but avoid direct sunlight. Mist regularly for moisture but do not overwater the cuttings as they are susceptible to rot. Rooting should occur within 4-6 weeks. Once rooted, the cuttings can be planted in their final location in the garden.
Disease Management for Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. menziesii
Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. menziesii is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases, including powdery mildew, downy mildew, leaf spot, and clubroot. Early detection and prevention are crucial in managing these diseases. Promoting plant vigor through proper nutrition, watering, and maintenance is the first line of defense.
Fungicides and bactericides can also be used as a preventive measure or as a treatment for infected plants. It is essential to read and follow the label instructions before using any chemical product.
If a plant is showing signs of severe infection, it is best to remove and destroy it to prevent the spread to other plants.
Pest Management for Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. menziesii
Erysimum menziesii (Hook.) Wettst. ssp. menziesii is also prone to insect pests, such as aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars. These pests can cause damages to the foliage, flowers, and stems of the plant.
Manual removal or spraying with water can help control small infestations. Insecticidal soap and neem oil are effective organic insecticides that can be used to kill and repel pests.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of infestation and take action immediately to prevent severe damage.
