Yellow fumitory
hypecoum procumbens
Also known as: ["Procumbent hypecoum","Yellow corydalis"]
Overview
A low-growing annual herb with yellow flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Hypecoum |
| Botanical Name: | Hypecoum procumbens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid intense afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water early in the day.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates cooler conditions but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from drafty areas; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Do not over-fertilize; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; fertilize only when actively growing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; do not overwater.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or leggy stems; shape the plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; handle roots carefully; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors during cold spells; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch if exposed to excessive heat or direct sun for prolonged periods.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently if in a hot environment.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal and neurological effects if they ingest parts of Hypecoum procumbens. The alkaloids present can cause discomfort but are not typically fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Hypecoum procumbens can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms due to its alkaloid content. The effects are typically not life-threatening but require monitoring.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHypecoum procumbens contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hypecoum procumbens toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How should I care for Hypecoum procumbens?
A: It requires well-drained soil and full sun, with minimal watering once established.
Q: Does Hypecoum procumbens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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