Sanddune Wallflower
Erysimum capitatum
Last reviewed: September 2026
Erysimum capitatum, the sanddune wallflower, is a full sun forb that blooms from May through July. It grows well in low water, well drained sites across a range of western and central climates.
Toxicity unknown
Sanddune Wallflower (Erysimum capitatum) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Sanddune Wallflower as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AR, AZ, CA, CO and 17 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Before you buy
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Sanddune wallflower is a compact native perennial that produces clusters of bright yellow to orange flowers from May through July. This drought-tolerant plant forms neat, low mounds and thrives in sunny locations with minimal water requirements.
Growing Sanddune Wallflower
Grow Sanddune Wallflower in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 8 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sanddune Wallflower is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- May appear sparse or weedy when not in bloom
- Unknown winter appearance could be problematic
Wildlife value
The colorful flowers attract bees and butterflies throughout the spring and summer blooming period. This native plant provides important nectar sources for pollinators during peak growing season.
Common questions
- When does sanddune wallflower bloom?
- Sanddune wallflower typically flowers from May through July, producing clusters of bright blooms on upright stems.
- What pollinators does sanddune wallflower attract?
- Bees and butterflies regularly visit sanddune wallflower flowers for nectar and pollen.
- How much water does sanddune wallflower need?
- This forb prefers low water once established and does best in well drained soil that does not stay wet.
- Does sanddune wallflower need full sun?
- Yes, sanddune wallflower grows best in full sun locations with several hours of direct light each day.
- Is Sanddune Wallflower toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Sanddune Wallflower as toxic to livestock.
- Is Sanddune Wallflower HOA-friendly?
- Sanddune Wallflower is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
These answers were drafted with an AI model from this plant's data. Verify care details with a local expert.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
If something looks wrong
Common plant problems, and what to check first
These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.
- It is dying right after planting
- Leaves turning yellow
- Wilting even though I watered it
- Brown crispy leaf tips
- Bugs on the plant
Ready to grow Sanddune Wallflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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