Coastal Wallflower, Sanddune wallflower, Contra Costa wallflower, San Luis Obispo wallflower, Pursh'

Erysimum capitatum

Physical Characteristics

Erysimum capitatum is a BIENNIAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - British Columbia to Indiana, south to Texas and California.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds; South Wall. In. West Wall. In.

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antirheumatic Odontalgic Poultice Skin A preventative against sun burn, the plant was ground up then mixed with water and applied to the skin[213]. It relieves the pain caused by overexposure to heat[155]. A poultice of the whole pounded plant has been applied to open fresh wounds and rheumatic joints[257]. An infusion of the whole plant has been used as a wash on aching muscles[257]. The crushed leaves have been sniffed as a treatment for headaches[257]. A poultice of the warmed root has been applied to treat the pain of toothache[257]. An infusion of the crushed seed has been drunk and used externally in the treatment of stomach or bowel cramps[257].

Known Hazards

None known