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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.

Sanddune Wallflower (Erysimum capitatum)
Photo: (c) Rachel Stringham, some rights reserved (CC BY)

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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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast RangeMarine West Coast ForestNorthwestern Forested MountainsSierra NevadaCentral California Foothills and Coastal MountainsCentral California ValleySouthern California MountainsNorth American DesertsCentral Basin and RangeMojave Basin and RangeSouthern RockiesArizona/New Mexico MountainsChihuahuan DesertsHigh PlainsSouthwestern TablelandsCentral Great PlainsCross TimbersEdwards PlateauTexas Blackland PrairiesEastern Temperate ForestsOzark HighlandsNorthwestern Great PlainsCentral Corn Belt PlainsInterior River Valleys and HillsMadrean ArchipelagoSonoran Basin and RangeSouthern California/Northern Baja Coast

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.

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How to care for Sanddune Wallflower, by region

How to care for Sanddune Wallflower where it is actually grown: year-round basics plus what to do each season, region by region, with the sources for each.

Care guidance last updated: October 2026

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Southern California Mountains (includes Big Bear Lake)

Year-round

Year-round care for sanddune wallflower around Big Bear Lake: sun to partial shade, dry well-drained soil, low water.

  • Give it sun, or partial shade per Calscape.
  • Dry, well-drained soil suits it, and it tolerates garden soil.
  • Water needs are low.
  • Stems rise from a basal rosette, up to about 4 feet tall in the Wildflower Center's description.
  • It is rated moderate for ease of care and needs little upkeep once established.
  • The Wildflower Center lists it as a biennial that usually blooms in its first year.

Upright flower stems over a neat rosette look planned when grouped in a bed. Remove spent stalks to keep it clean.

Sources: Calscape: Erysimum capitatum, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Erysimum capitatum

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.

See all plant problem guides

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