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Description
Erysimum Franciscanum, also known as San Francisco Wallflower, is a small perennial plant native to California. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers due to its bright yellow flowers and pleasant fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Erysimum |
Appearance
The Erysimum Franciscanum has narrow leaves that grow up to 3 inches long and 0.5 inches wide. It can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in clusters from late winter to early summer. The flowers are small, measuring about 0.5 inches in diameter, but they are highly fragrant, making them attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Erysimum Franciscanum is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your San Francisco Wallflower:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant once a week, or more if the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Erysimum Franciscanum does not require a lot of fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If the soil is too heavy, mix in some sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Erysimum Franciscanum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erysimum Franciscanum is susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common problems to watch out for:
- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause stunted growth and deformed leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Whiteflies: These small, winged insects can cause yellowing leaves and sticky honeydew on the plant’s surface. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control whiteflies.
- Fungal diseases: Erysimum Franciscanum is prone to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis. These diseases can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves and flowers. Remove infected plant parts and use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Erysimum Franciscanum is native to California and can be found in coastal and inland areas. The plant grows in rocky, well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can be found in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Erysimum Franciscanum grow in containers?
A: Yes, Erysimum Franciscanum can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Erysimum Franciscanum?
A: Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Q: How do I propagate Erysimum Franciscanum?
A: Erysimum Franciscanum can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. Sow seeds in the fall or early spring, or take stem cuttings in the summer and root them in moist soil.
Q: What is the best time to prune Erysimum Franciscanum?
A: Prune the plant after it has finished flowering to encourage new growth and promote a bushier shape.
Related Plants
- Erysimum asperum
- Erysimum capitatum
- Erysimum cheiranthoides
- Erysimum concinnum
- Erysimum franciscanum
- Erysimum insulare
- Erysimum menziesii
- Erysimum perenne
- Erysimum repandum
References
- San Francisco Wallflower, National Park Service, https://www.nps.gov/articles/san-francisco-wallflower.htm
- Erysimum Franciscanum, Plant Finder, https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/607/san-francisco-wallflower/
- Erysimum Franciscanum, UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County, https://ccmg.ucanr.edu/Plant_of_the_Month/Erysimum_Franciscanum/
