Yellow corydalis
pseudofumaria lutea
Also known as: ["Corydalis lutea","Yellow fumitory"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with delicate yellow flowers and fern-like foliage, native to Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Pseudofumaria |
| Botanical Name: | Pseudofumaria lutea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more intensive shaping in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching; place in filtered sunlight outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors; avoid direct midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn or etiolation.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates; protect from extreme heat and frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent cool conditions; protect from frost and intense heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not stressed.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a mild rooting hormone powder or gel.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node; shape as needed with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or wilting in cold stress; buds failing to open in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to dormancy or death if not protected.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors before frost; provide a protective layer of mulch for in-ground plants; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering; may lead to dehydration and nutrient deficiencies.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water more frequently but ensure drainage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPseudofumaria lutea is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPseudofumaria lutea is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPseudofumaria lutea is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no documented cases of toxicity associated with ingestion of this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pseudofumaria lutea toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade and can tolerate shade.
Q: How often should I water Pseudofumaria lutea?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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