Western Wallflower (Erysimum capitatum)

Rainy Lake Road, Columbia Gorge, OR, 6/2014.

The name “western” is apt, as this variety appears in every western state, at almost every elevation.  The highest concentration is between 6-10 thousand feet.  The common name refers to a European variety that is often found growing near the walls of ancient ruins.

Silver Star Mountain, Columbia Gorge, WA, 6/2013.