perennial

Corydalis ophiocarpa

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Biennial or short-lived perennial

Native To

Himalayas

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Corydalis ophiocarpa is a short-lived perennial or biennial with delicate, fern-like, blue-green foliage and racemes of small, spurred, tubular flowers. This species is notable for its attractive, finely divided foliage and its ability to thrive in shaded, woodland-like environments, making it a popular choice for shaded garden beds.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds early spring color and delicate foliage to shaded gardens.

Prefers moist, well-drained soils, ideal for woodland gardens.

Provides early nectar for pollinators in shaded habitats.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in fall for natural stratification
Keep soil consistently moist during growing season
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
Plant in partial shade for best bloom performance
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Provide shaded, moist conditions for optimal growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Prune back after flowering to encourage healthy growth

Don't

Avoid dry, sunny locations ❌
Don't let soil dry out completely
Refrain from heavy fertilization which can promote leggy growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoist shady garden bed

Companion Plants

Fern Hosta Astilbe Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Corydalis ophiocarpa questions

What zones can Corydalis ophiocarpa grow in?

Corydalis ophiocarpa is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Corydalis ophiocarpa deer resistant?

Yes — Corydalis ophiocarpa is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Corydalis ophiocarpa bloom?

Corydalis ophiocarpa typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Corydalis ophiocarpa need full sun?

Corydalis ophiocarpa does best in part shade.