CORYDALIS (Coryd'alis)

DESCRIPTION: This group consists of 300 species of rhizomatous or tuberous, deciduous perennials, which are natives of Asian and European woodlands. Fumeworts, as they are commonly known, are valued for there delicate, fern-like, blue-green foliage and clusters of dainty, tubular flowers in early spring. The flowers range from white or creamy gray to yellow, purple, rose, or lilac and are borne on 3- to 9-inch stems. Fumeworts grow up to 4 feet high and are suitable for growing in rock gardens, woodland gardens, and next to pools or streams. The most commonly sold Fumeworts are C. solida, which has pale rose-colored flowers, and C. lutea, which has yellow flowers; however, there are also blue-flowered varieties. C. flexuosa 'Blue Panda' produces blue flowers from spring to frost in a moist, shady woodland garden. There are two North American natives, C. scouleri and C. sempervirens (Rock Harlequin) C. scouleri has pink flowers and C. sempervirens has pink & yellow flowers. The latter can be invasive.

POTTING: Fumeworts can be grown from zones 4 to 8. The tubers should be planted in well drained, organic soil about 3 inches deep and 4 or 5 inches apart, in the fall. If you purchase your Fumeworts as plants, set them in the garden in the spring. They should be located in a sunny or lightly shaded site. However, protect them from sun when the are first planted until they become established. Water them well while the are actively growing and blooming. Sometimes, Fumeworts can be short-lived in gardens, disappearing shortly after the flowers die. They will come back the following spring.

PROPAGATION: Increase your plants by dividing the clumps right after flowering. Replant the divided portions immediately. Seeds can also be sown in fine soil, in the spring.

SPECIES & VARIETIES: C. solida; C. lutea; C. flexuosa & var. 'Blue Panda', 'Pere David'; C. sempervirens; C. scouleri; C. aurea; C. cava; C. cheilanthifolia; C. Halleri; C. nobilis; C. thalictrifolia; C. Wilsonii.

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