Diffuse Wallflower: An Uncommon Non-Native with Limited Presence
Meet the diffuse wallflower (Erysimum diffusum), a rather mysterious member of the mustard family that’s managed to establish itself in Iowa despite being a non-native species. While most gardeners are familiar with common wallflowers, this particular species flies under the radar – and for good reason, as there’s surprisingly little information available about this elusive plant.
What Exactly Is Diffuse Wallflower?
Diffuse wallflower is a biennial to perennial forb, meaning it’s an herbaceous flowering plant without woody stems. Like other members of its family, it likely produces the characteristic four-petaled flowers that wallflowers are known for, though specific details about this species are scarce in botanical literature.
Where You’ll Find It (Or Won’t)
Currently, Erysimum diffusum has been documented growing wild in Iowa, making it quite the botanical needle in a haystack. This non-native species originally hails from Europe, like many of its wallflower relatives, but has somehow found its way to the American Midwest.
The Mystery of Growing Diffuse Wallflower
Here’s where things get tricky for gardeners: there’s very limited specific information available about successfully cultivating Erysimum diffusum. Based on what we know about other wallflower species, it likely prefers:
- Well-draining soil conditions
- Full sun to partial shade
- Moderate water requirements
- Cool to moderate climate zones
However, without specific cultivation data, growing this particular species would be somewhat of a gardening experiment.
Should You Plant It?
Given that diffuse wallflower is non-native and there’s limited information about its behavior in American gardens, it’s not a plant we’d enthusiastically recommend. While it doesn’t appear to be invasive based on current data, its rarity in cultivation suggests it may be challenging to grow or simply not well-suited to most garden conditions.
Native Alternatives to Consider
Instead of hunting down this elusive wallflower, consider these fantastic native options that offer similar benefits:
- Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): Attracts pollinators and adds purple blooms
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): Bright yellow flowers that last all season
- Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea): Unique cylindrical flowers beloved by bees
- Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis): Delicate flowers perfect for woodland gardens
The Bottom Line
While diffuse wallflower might intrigue plant collectors and botanical enthusiasts, it’s not a practical choice for most gardeners. The lack of available information, limited distribution, and non-native status make it more of a botanical curiosity than a garden staple. Your time and garden space are better invested in well-documented native species that will thrive in your local ecosystem and support regional wildlife.
If you’re set on growing wallflowers, consider sticking with more common, well-documented species – or better yet, explore the wonderful world of native wildflowers that are perfectly adapted to your local growing conditions.
