Wallflower
Erysimum cheiri
Family: Brassicaceae · Also called Cheiranthus, Gillyflower, Handflower, Cheiranthus × cheiri var. canescens, Cheiranthus × cheiri, Cheiranthus × cheiri var. multiplex
Earthy & Warm · Spring bloomer
The wallflower is medieval romance embodied, a flower that clings to castle walls and ancient ruins, filling spring air with a warm, clove-scented fragrance. True to its name, it colonizes old mortar, brick, and stone, creating stunning displays in the most unlikely places. The scent is exceptionally rich for such a small flower, warm, spicy, and sweet.
faithfulness in adversity, lasting beauty
In the Victorian language of flowers, wallflower means “Fidelity in adversity”. The wallflower literally grows from walls, its seeds lodge in mortar and its roots grip stone, creating spectacular displays on old buildings and ruins across Europe. In Shakespeare's era, maidens who weren't asked to dance were said to be 'wallflowers', the term entered the language from this quiet, clinging plant.
Did You Know?
The English word 'wallflower' (a shy person at a social gathering) comes directly from this plant, it was observed growing alone on walls, apart from the rest of the garden. The plant has been cultivated since at least the 13th century and was a favorite of Elizabethan knot gardens.
Old walls, cliffs, and rocky outcrops across southern Europe
Wallflower is native to Southern Europe. It naturally grows in old walls, cliffs, and rocky outcrops across southern europe.
Scent Profile
“A warm, spicy-sweet fragrance with distinct clove and cinnamon notes, rich and comforting, strongest in the evening warmth.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameErysimum cheiri
- FamilyBrassicaceae
- Native ToSouthern Europe
- Bloom SeasonSpring
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
The wallflower literally grows from walls, its seeds lodge in mortar and its roots grip stone, creating spectacular displays on old buildings and ruins across Europe. In Shakespeare's era, maidens who weren't asked to dance were said to be 'wallflowers', the term entered the language from this quiet, clinging plant.