Soldier's Cap
corydalis solida
Also known as: ["Fumewort","Soldier's Cap"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, known for its distinctive spurred flowers and tuberous roots.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Corydalis |
| Botanical Name: | Corydalis solida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded rock garden, or under deciduous trees
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, humus-rich soil; loamy or sandy soil amended with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; occasional tidying throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; primarily deadheading and removal of yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun or dappled light is ideal; adjust for seasonal changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light to avoid scorching; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct midday sun; provide filtered light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially during dormancy.
Soil
well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; maintain consistent moisture levels during growth.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions during dormancy; tolerates mild frost.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop before dormancy begins.
Propagation
Methods
Division or seed; division is more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps carefully.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water lightly until established.
Best Time: Early spring, just as new growth emerges, or immediately after flowering.
Environment
Cool temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C); high humidity; partial shade.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite or sand); can also be propagated in situ by division.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seeds to improve germination rates.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 3–4 weeks, flowering in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, sharp knife, gloves.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; sow seeds shallowly; keep seedlings moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flower stalks at the base; trim damaged foliage with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing spent flowers and damaged foliage to encourage reblooming and tidiness.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; cut damaged leaves; clean tools between cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall, during dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2–5 cm) if repotting is necessary.
Method
Gently lift the plant; remove old soil; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil at the same depth.
Suggestions
Repot only when overcrowded or every 3–4 years; best done during dormancy to minimize stress.
Checklist
Check root bound status; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring), allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering significantly in summer dormancy and winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or failure to emerge from dormancy in overly cold conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause root damage if temperatures drop below freezing; inhibits dormancy completion.
Solution: Provide winter protection in colder climates; avoid planting in frost pockets; ensure good soil drainage to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature dormancy; disrupts flowering cycle.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growth; cease during dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth (spring); avoid fertilizing during dormancy (summer/winter).
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Corydalis solida due to its alkaloid content. Ingestion can result in severe neurological and gastrointestinal disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Corydalis solida by dogs can lead to toxicosis due to the presence of alkaloids. These substances can disrupt normal bodily functions and cause distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCorydalis solida contains alkaloids that can cause significant physiological effects when ingested. These compounds interfere with the nervous system and can lead to severe discomfort and potential systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Corydalis solida?
A: It can be propagated by division or by sowing seeds in autumn.
Q: Does Corydalis solida require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial shade or full shade.
Q: Is Corydalis solida deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
