Corydalis flexuosa 'Purple Leaf'

syn. Pseudofumaria
Family: Papaveraceae
Pronounced: ko-RI-dal-is flex-ewe-O-sa

Quick Jumps

Growing Guide
Rainy Side Notes

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GROWING GUIDE

Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Perennials.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 4-9, 14-24.
USDA zones: 6-8.
Heat zones: 8-6.
Mature size:
Height: 12 inches (30 cm).
Width: 8 inches (20 cm).
Flowering period:
March to April.
Flowering attributes:
Racemes of bright blue, tubular flowers with white throats.
Leaf attributes:
Finely divided, fern-like foliage that turns purple in late winter with dark red markings at the base of the leaves.
Growth habit:
Clump forming.
Light:
Partial shade.
Soil:
Excellent drainage, neutral ph and humus rich soil.
Feeding:
Use a complete organic fertilizer in early spring. Side dress with a little lime.
Propagation Methods:
Divide immediately after flowering.

 

Rainy Side Notes

A few years ago, Corydalis flexuosa 'Purple Leaf' was an exciting addition to my garden. I planted the small perennial into a new rock wall, so when the plant departed into dormancy during the summer, it didn’t leave a gaping hole in the garden.

In late winter to early spring, the leaves are purple, and at the base of each leaflet are dark red markings. In spring, it is the first Corydalis flexuosa cultivar to flower; the glorious blue flowers are very striking against the charcoal-gray basalt rocks that make the wall.

Unlike many other areas of the country, we can grow these beautiful perennials in our maritime climate, since the species come from cooler climates. However, it is important that corydalis be planted in soil with excellent drainage.

Photographed in author's garden.