Common wallflower is a woody-based herbaceous perennial subshrub in the family Brassicaceae that is typically cultivated as a biennial. It is noted for producing clusters of fragrant 4-petaled flowers in spring, followed by narrow dehiscent seed pods that are several centimeters long.
Common wallflower typically grows 15-80 cm tall. Flowers (each 2 cm wide) are mostly bright yellow or yellow-orange to brown, but sometimes appear reddish purple to burgundy. The flowers contain essential oil with a pleasing aroma when diluted. It is used in perfumery. Bright green leaves are narrow and pointed and can be up to 20 cm long.
Common wallflower is native to southern Europe, but has been introduced in North America where it has naturalized in British Columbia, Washington and California. It is a popular garden plant in Europe; many cultivars have been developed, in shades of yellow, orange, red, maroon, purple, brown, white and cream.