“Wallflower Isn’t Shy”

Western Wallflower isn’t shy, it just likes to grow along European masonry and North American sandy, rocky foothills. Also known as the ‘prairie rocket,’ it blooms in late May to late June on the northern plains and reaches 8 to 21 inches tall. It’s characterized by tall, thin, straight stems from a basal rosette and dense clusters of variable-colored yellow to orange flowers. It is also a pollinator generalist–pollinated by a variety of organisms.

Its scientific name, ‘erysimum capitatum,’ means “to help or save” [erysiumum], referring to its medicinal qualities, and “head-like” [capitatum], referring to its shape of floral clustering. Historically used as a poultice for bronchial congestion, and chewed or made into a tea for bowel issues.

Original mixed media on raw stretched canvas with maple float frame.

This painting is on exhibition and for sale at Anne Irwin Fine Art in Atlanta, GA for the month of May 2024.