Overview
Erysimum pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. pallasii, also known as Pallas’ wallflower, is a winter-hardy plant native to North America. It is a member of the mustard family Brassicaceae and is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers.
Appearance
Erysimum pallasii var. pallasii is a low-growing shrub that typically reaches a height of 10 to 30 centimeters and a width of up to 50 centimeters. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 4 centimeters long and covered in fine hairs. The plant produces small, four-petaled flowers that are yellow or orange in color and arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer.
Origin and Habitat
Erysimum pallasii var. pallasii is native to western North America, where it can be found in a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and rocky slopes. It is commonly found at elevations of up to 2,400 meters.
Common Names
Erysimum pallasii var. pallasii is commonly known as Pallas’ wallflower, Pallas’ erysimum, and yellow wallflower. In some regions, it is also known as prairie rocket.
Uses
Erysimum pallasii var. pallasii is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and containers. It is prized for its bright, cheerful flowers and winter hardiness. The plant can also be used medicinally, with the leaves and stems being used to treat coughs and colds. Additionally, the plant is a valuable source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Typical Growth Conditions of Erysimum pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. pallasii
Erysimum pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. pallasii, commonly known as Pallas' Erysimum, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant species belonging to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to the western United States, particularly in the Sierra Nevada and the Cascade Range. Erysimum pallasii grows up to 1-2 feet tall and has narrow dark green leaves that are about 2-4 inches long.
Light Requirements
Erysimum pallasii prefers full sun to partial shade with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This plant can tolerate some shade, but it may result in leggy growth and fewer blooms. In areas with hot summers, some afternoon shade is recommended to protect the plant from sunburn.
Temperature Requirements
Erysimum pallasii grows best in cool to temperate climates. It prefers a moderate climate with average temperatures ranging from 50-75°F (10-24°C). This plant can tolerate cold temperatures and is hardy to USDA zones 5-9. However, it may not survive in extremely cold temperatures, particularly in areas with harsh winter conditions and frost.
Soil Requirements
Erysimum pallasii grows well in well-drained, sandy loam, or clay soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It prefers soils that are rich in nutrients and organic matter. It can also tolerate slightly salty soils. However, poorly-drained soils may cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Overall, Erysimum pallasii is a hardy plant that can tolerate different growing conditions. It is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it an excellent plant for beginner gardeners.
Cultivation Methods for Erysimum Pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. Pallasii
Erysimum pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. pallasii, commonly known as Pallas' Wallflower, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant. It can be grown in USDA Hardiness zones 4-9 and prefers full sun and well-draining soil.
The plant can be propagated by seed, either by sowing them directly in the garden in the fall or by starting them indoors in the spring and then transplanting them outside after the last frost. Erysimum pallasii should be planted 30-45 cm apart.
Watering Needs for Erysimum Pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. Pallasii
Erysimum pallasii requires moderate watering and should not be allowed to dry out completely. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization for Erysimum Pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. Pallasii
Erysimum pallasii requires little fertilization, and too much can harm the plant. It is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 once a month during the growing season.
Pruning for Erysimum Pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. Pallasii
Pruning can help to promote a bushier plant and prolong the bloom period. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Pruning should be done in the early spring before new growth appears. Cutting the stems back to a leaf node will encourage the plant to branch out.
Propagation methods for Erysimum pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. pallasii
Erysimum pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. pallasii, commonly known as Pallas' wallflower, is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 30 cm tall. The plant is native to western North America and is appreciated for its ornamental value. Propagation of Erysimum pallasii can be achieved by various methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common and easiest method of propagating Erysimum pallasii. The best time to sow seeds is during spring or early summer. The following are the steps to follow when propagating Erysimum pallasii through seed:
- Collect the seeds from the matured plants and store them in a cool, dry place.
- Sow the seeds on a seedbed filled with a well-drained potting mix. The seeds should be sown directly into the soil without covering them with soil.
- Water the seedbed carefully, and keep it moist until germination. Germination usually takes up to three weeks.
- After germination, thin out the seedlings to prevent overcrowding and promote airflow.
- Transplant the seedlings to individual pots when they are big enough and established.
- Once the seedlings are strong enough to survive on their own, transplant them to the garden in a location that has well-drained soil and receives partial to full sun.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Erysimum pallasii involves the use of cuttings or division of mature plants. This method of propagation is usually used when the plant has grown too large or cannot produce seeds. The following are the steps to follow when propagating Erysimum pallasii vegetatively:
- When using cuttings, take a 10 cm cutting from a mature plant's stem, ensuring that it possesses a few leaves near the tip and no flowers. Cut the base of the cutting at a 45-degree angle to increase the surface area exposed to the soil for rooting.
- Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and transfer it into a planting tray filled with a well-drained potting mix. Ensure that the mix stays moist as the cutting develops roots.
- When using division, dig up the mature plant, and carefully divide the plant into sections making sure each section has enough roots. Dividing Erysimum pallasii should be avoided in the plants' active growth period.
- Plant the divided sections in well-drained soil and water regularly until the plant is established. Erysimum pallasii enjoys partial to full sun.
Disease and Pest Management for Erysimum pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. pallasii
Erysimum pallasii (Pursh) Fern. var. pallasii, commonly known as Pallas's Wallflower, is an herbaceous perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. Although this plant is generally hardy, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can cause significant damage. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect Erysimum pallasii var. pallasii, and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
Clubroot: Clubroot is caused by the soil-borne fungus Plasmodiophora brassicae, and is characterized by the swelling of roots and reduced growth. To manage Clubroot, avoid planting Erysimum pallasii var. pallasii in acidic soils, and amend the soil with lime to raise the pH. Crop rotation with non-cruciferous plants can also help.
Downy Mildew: Downy Mildew is caused by the fungus Peronospora brassicae, and is characterized by yellowing of leaves, and a white mold growth on the undersides of leaves. To manage Downy Mildew, avoid overhead irrigation and maintain good air circulation around plants. Fungicides can be used as a preventive measure.
Pests:
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from plants, causing stunted growth and distortion. To manage aphids, remove them by hand or spray the plants with water to dislodge them. Horticultural oils and soaps can also be effective.
Cabbage Loopers: Cabbage Loopers are the larvae of a moth, and are characterized by their looping motion when they move. They feed on the leaves of plants and can cause significant damage. To manage Cabbage Loopers, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural bacteria that targets the larvae.
Slugs: Slugs are mollusks that feed on plant leaves, causing large, irregular holes. To manage slugs, handpick them in the early morning or evening, when they are most active. Copper barriers around plants can also be effective, as well as using iron phosphate bait.
By understanding these common diseases and pests and implementing preventive measures, you can keep your Erysimum pallasii var. pallasii plants healthy and thriving.
