Cheiranthus cheiri (Erysimum) 'Cloth of Gold' – Radiant Golden Wallflower for the Garden

Cheiranthus cheiri, also known as Erysimum or the wallflower, is a popular and versatile garden plant known for its long blooming period, rich colors, and fragrant flowers. The cultivar 'Cloth of Gold' immediately stands out with its bright yellow flowers that literally make the garden shine. This elegant wallflower is perfect for borders, rock gardens, and as an accent in colorful garden designs.

Characteristics of Cheiranthus cheiri 'Cloth of Gold'

'Cloth of Gold' is a hardy, compact wallflower that reaches a height of about 30–50 cm. The plant produces abundant clusters of bright yellow, almost gold-colored flowers, making it a striking sight in spring and early summer. The flowers have a light, pleasant fragrance that enhances the garden's ambiance and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Thanks to its compact growth and strong stems, Cheiranthus cheiri 'Cloth of Gold' remains beautifully upright, even in wind or rain. This makes it an excellent choice for both traditional borders and modern garden designs. The intense yellow of the flowers combines beautifully with purple, orange, or red blooms for a contrasting and vibrant effect.

Care and Growth

Cheiranthus cheiri 'Cloth of Gold' is easy to care for and suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. It grows best in well-drained, fertile soil and prefers a sunny to partially shaded location. Regular watering encourages long-lasting blooms, but the plant is fairly drought-tolerant once well-established.

Removing spent flowers promotes new blooms and maintains a compact plant shape. Cheiranthus cheiri can be grown as an annual, biennial, or perennial, depending on the climate. In colder regions, it is often planted as a biennial, while in milder areas it can bloom for several years.

Application in the Garden

The golden flowers of 'Cloth of Gold' make this cultivar ideal as a border plant, edging, rock garden, or in planters. Its vibrant color instantly adds a sunny touch to any garden design. The plant also attracts natural pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to a biodiverse and healthy garden.

The combination of long flowering periods, winter hardiness, and intense color makes Cheiranthus cheiri 'Cloth of Gold' a valuable addition to both ornamental and organic gardens. It can also be planted alongside other colorful Erysimum cultivars to create a dynamic floral palette.

Conclusion

Cheiranthus cheiri (Erysimum) 'Goliath' is an impressive and colorful wallflower that, with its large flowers, robust growth, and pleasant fragrance, is a real eye-catcher in any garden. Thanks to its easy care, hardiness, and long flowering period, it is suitable for borders, rock gardens, and ornamental containers. Whether you're a novice gardener or an experienced plant lover, this cultivar adds color, fragrance, and vitality to your outdoor space, while also contributing to a healthy and biodiverse garden.