Cheiranthus cheiri (Erysimum) 'Scarlet Emperor' – The Deep Red Wallflower for the Garden

Cheiranthus cheiri, also known as Erysimum or the wallflower, is a popular garden plant known for its long blooming period, fragrant flowers, and versatile uses. The cultivar 'Scarlet Emperor' stands out with its intense, deep red flowers, adding a striking and regal touch to any garden. This vigorous wallflower is ideal for borders, rock gardens, and ornamental containers, offering both visual beauty and ecological value.

Characteristics of Cheiranthus cheiri 'Scarlet Emperor'

'Scarlet Emperor' is a hardy, robust wallflower that reaches a height of about 50–70 cm. The plant develops lush clusters of deep red, almost velvety flowers that bloom from spring to early summer. The flowers have a light, pleasant fragrance, making this cultivar not only visually appealing but also stimulating to the senses.

Thanks to its sturdy stems and compact growth, Cheiranthus cheiri 'Scarlet Emperor' remains upright, even in windy weather. These qualities make it suitable for both garden beds and decorative containers. The intense color of the flowers creates a striking contrast with yellow, orange, or purple blooms, making it a striking accent in any garden design.

Care and Growth

Cheiranthus cheiri 'Scarlet Emperor' is easy to care for, making it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners. The plant grows best in well-drained, fertile soil and prefers a sunny to partially shaded location. Regular watering encourages prolonged flowering, but once established, the plant can also tolerate short periods of drought.

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 cooler regions, it is often planted as a biennial, while in milder climates it can bloom for several years.

Application in the Garden

The deep red flowers of 'Scarlet Emperor' make this cultivar ideal for borders, rock gardens, planters, and as a garden accent. Its robust growth and long blooming period provide consistent color and texture in the garden. In addition, Cheiranthus cheiri 'Scarlet Emperor' attracts natural pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to a biodiverse and healthy garden.

Its intense colour and compact, sturdy growth mean this wallflower can be combined with other Erysimum cultivars or low groundcovers to create a dramatic, contrasting effect.

Conclusion

Cheiranthus cheiri (Erysimum) 'Scarlet Emperor' is a bold, deep-red, and fragrant wallflower that makes a striking addition to any garden. With its long bloom time, robust growth, and intense color, it's perfect for borders, rock gardens, and ornamental containers. Whether you're a novice gardener or an experienced plant lover, 'Scarlet Emperor' adds color, fragrance, and vibrancy to your garden while contributing to a healthy and biodiverse outdoor space.