Corydalis intermedia
Corydalis intermedia · Papaveraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant corydalis intermedia: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Papaveraceae
- Form
- Herbaceous
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- April to June
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm tall
- Hardiness
- Hardy to -15°C
- Origin
- Central and Eastern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, rich in humus
Care
Light exposure
Corydalis intermedia prefers a position in dappled shade or partial shade, under tree cover or on the north side of borders. It tolerates morning sun but dislikes intense afternoon rays, particularly in warm climates.
Watering
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the growing period (spring and early summer). In summer, after flowering, gradually reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Excess moisture in winter promotes rot.
Soil
Plant Corydalis intermedia in fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Adding compost or potting soil at planting improves establishment. Slightly acidic to neutral soil is ideal.
Feeding
A balanced feed in spring when growth resumes is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen which would favour foliage at the expense of flowers. A slow-release granular fertilizer serves as an annual treatment.
Pruning and deadheading
No formal pruning is necessary. Simply remove spent flowers to encourage prolonged flowering. Allow the plant to die back naturally at the end of summer so it can self-seed if desired.
Diseases and pests
Corydalis intermedia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, watch for powdery mildew in humid conditions and slugs in spring, particularly in mild climates. Good drainage prevents fungal rots.
Did you know?
Corydalis intermedia has been a classic plant in European shaded gardens since the nineteenth century, prized by botanists for its delicate pink or purple flowers. Its name 'Corydalis' derives from ancient Greek 'korydos' (lark), referring to the flower's shape which evokes the characteristic call of this bird. It long featured in the collections of gardeners passionate about mountain botanical discoveries.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Bleeding heartLamprocapnos spectabilis
- Corydalis flexuosaCorydalis flexuosa
- California poppyEschscholzia californica
- Opium poppyPapaver somniferum
- Solid-bulbed corydalisCorydalis solida
- Climbing corydalisCeratocapnos claviculata
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.