Wallflower Erysimum 'Constant Cheer'
ABOUT
Erysimum 'Constant Cheer' is known for its vibrant display of flowers that bloom profusely and bring continuous color to the garden landscape. This particular variety is characterized by its multi-colored blooms, which can range from shades of orange, pink, red to purple, often with a delightful gradient effect within each flower. These blooms are small, with four petals in a cross shape, typical to the species, and they form dense clusters at the top of the stems. The plant itself has a bushy habit with narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are a deep, rich green. The foliage provides a pleasing contrast to the brightly colored flowers and is evergreen in nature, meaning the plant retains its leaves throughout the year. These leaves are smooth to the touch and may have slightly serrated or smooth edges. Erysimum 'Constant Cheer' starts blooming early in the spring and can continue to flower into the fall, offering a long season of interest. As the blooms age, their colors may fade to softer tones, providing a changing palette over the flowering period. The flowers also tend to have a light to moderate fragrance, which can be quite pleasant and may attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden. Overall, Erysimum 'Constant Cheer' is prized for its colorful and long-lasting display, which can brighten up garden borders, rockeries, and containers with its cheerful blooms. It is a favorite among gardeners who desire to add a splash of color to their outdoor spaces without needing to frequently replace seasonal annuals.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Brassicaceae
Synonyms
Wallflower, Perennial Wallflower, Constant Cheer Wallflower
Common names
Erysimum 'Constant Cheer'
ToxicityTo humans
Wallflower 'Constant Cheer' is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to humans. However, as with many plants, individual sensitivity can vary and some people might experience mild irritation or an allergic reaction if they have sensitive skin or allergies. If ingested, it's generally not considered poisonous, but it is advisable not to eat any part of ornamental plants due to the potential for gastrointestinal upset or other non-specific symptoms in some individuals.
To pets
Wallflower 'Constant Cheer' is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets such as cats and dogs. While it is not typical for this plant to cause serious harm if ingested, it's still a good practice to discourage pets from chewing on or ingesting ornamental plants. Some animals may have a sensitivity that could lead to mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of any plant, it is wise to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Vibrant Color: Adds striking color to gardens with its long-lasting blooms.
- Easy to Grow: Known for being low-maintenance and easy to cultivate.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it is very tolerant of drought conditions.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers early spring to summer interest in the landscape.
- Compact Growth: Suitable for small spaces, rockeries, and borders due to its compact size.
- Versatility: Can be used in various garden designs, including cottage and contemporary settings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Erysimum 'Constant Cheer' can be used as a natural dye source. The flowers and leaves can produce a range of colors when used to dye fabrics or yarns.
- This plant serves as an attractive addition to butterfly gardens, helping to attract and support these pollinators with its nectar-rich blooms.
- Wallflower petals are edible and can be used to add color to salads or as a decorative garnish on dishes.
- Create potpourri with dried Erysimum 'Constant Cheer' flowers to bring a pleasant fragrance to your home or use them in homemade scented sachets.
- The plant's compact size and abundant flowers make it suitable for container gardening, brightening up balconies and patios.
- With its vibrant flowers, Erysimum 'Constant Cheer' can be used in floral arrangements to add a pop of color.
- Crafting enthusiasts can incorporate dried Erysimum flowers into homemade paper to add texture and visual interest.
- Erysimum 'Constant Cheer' can be used as companion plants in the vegetable garden, as their flowers may help in attracting beneficial insects that can aid in pest control.
- The woody stems of mature plants can be used in small-scale craft projects, such as making plant markers for other species in the garden.
- Wallflowers can be featured in educational activities, like school gardening projects, to teach children about plant growth and pollination.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiWallflower is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityWallflower is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Optimism: The 'Constant Cheer' Erysimum, commonly known as Wallflower, often symbolizes optimism due to its continuous bloom cycle and bright colors, which convey a sense of enduring positivity.
- Perseverance: Wallflowers are hardy plants that bloom even in challenging conditions, representing the ability to endure and persist.
- Adversity: Due to their ability to grow in poor soils and withstand tough environments, wallflowers can symbolize overcoming adversity.
- Faithfulness: The long-lasting nature of the flowers can represent faithfulness in relationships, implying a commitment that endures through time.
WaterWallflowers like Erysimum 'Constant Cheer' should be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage strong root growth. In general, water these plants with about 1 gallon per square foot of soil every week, adjusting for rain and climate conditions. Be sure to water the soil, not the foliage, to prevent disease. During the hot, dry summer months, you might need to water the plants two to three times a week, while in cooler weather or when rainfall is plentiful, watering may only be necessary every other week.
LightWallflowers, including Erysimum 'Constant Cheer', thrive in full sun, where they can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They can tolerate partial shade but flowering may be reduced. The best spot for wallflowers is therefore an open area without tall plants or structures casting shadows over them, ensuring they get ample light throughout the day.
TemperatureWallflowers such as Erysimum 'Constant Cheer' prefer moderate temperatures and can generally survive in temperatures ranging from approximately 30°F to 85°F. They perform best in temperatures between 55°F and 75°F. It's important to protect these plants from frost and sweltering heat as both extremes can cause damage or stress to the plants.
PruningPruning wallflowers like Erysimum 'Constant Cheer' enhances their appearance and promotes vigorous growth. Trim away dead and faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. After the main bloom period, in late spring or early summer, cut back the plants by about one-third to maintain a neat shape and to stimulate a new flush of flowers. Heavy pruning should be done in the fall to prepare the plant for winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWallflower 'Constant Cheer' thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. A soil mix containing equal parts of loam, peat, and sharp sand is ideal. Aim for a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingWallflowers like 'Constant Cheer' do not require frequent repotting; every two to three years is sufficient. It is best to repot in the early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingWallflower 'Constant Cheer' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to a range of conditions as long as it is not too wet, which can lead to rot.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Constant Cheer' in bright light, away from drafts.
Outdoor
Choose sunny spot with well-draining soil for 'Constant Cheer'.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Erysimum 'Constant Cheer', commonly known as Wallflower, begins with seed germination, typically occurring in spring or autumn in well-drained soil under full sun to partial shade. Following germination, the seedlings develop into rosettes of leaves as they enter the vegetative stage, growing steadily in favorable conditions. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, producing brightly colored flowers that can range from orange, red, to purple, attracting pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed pods, and once mature, the pods release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Some varieties of Erysimum are perennial and may enter a dormant phase in winter, regrowing from the same root system year after year, whereas others are biennial, completing their life cycle in two years. Lastly, after several seasons or upon environmental stress, the plant will eventually senesce and die, leaving behind seeds to propagate the next generation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Erysimum 'Constant Cheer', commonly known as wallflower, is propagated most successfully through semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is typically carried out in late summer. To propagate, select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a section approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long. Remove the lower leaves to reveal a clear stem. The cut end is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm environment with indirect light and maintained moist until roots have established, after which it can be transplanted to its final location. This method is preferred for maintaining the varietal characteristics of the 'Constant Cheer' wallflower.
