Contents
Description
Corydalis Cava, also known as hollowroot or rock harlequin, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Papaveraceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in rocky and wooded areas, as well as on stream banks and slopes. The plant has delicate blue or pink flowers that bloom in early spring and grow up to 30 cm tall. It is known for its unique fern-like foliage and hollow tuberous roots that are used in traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Corydalis |
Appearance
The leaves of Corydalis Cava are bright green and fern-like, giving it a delicate and lacy appearance. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and has small blue or pink flowers that bloom in early spring. The flowers are arranged in clusters and have a distinct spur that is longer than the rest of the petals. The plant has hollow tuberous roots that are used in traditional medicine and can grow up to 10 cm long.
Care Guide
Corydalis Cava is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your Corydalis Cava:
- Water: Corydalis Cava prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some drought. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year to promote growth.
- Soil: Corydalis Cava prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sun, but too much sun can cause the leaves to wilt.
- Hardiness Zones: Corydalis Cava is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Corydalis Cava is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can occasionally be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause distorted growth and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Slugs and snails: These mollusks can eat the foliage of the plant. Use slug bait or copper tape to keep them away.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Corydalis Cava is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in rocky and wooded areas, as well as on stream banks and slopes. The plant prefers moist soil and partial to full shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Corydalis Cava be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Corydalis Cava can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is kept moist.
Q: How often should I water my Corydalis Cava?
A: Corydalis Cava prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry periods. However, make sure not to overwater it, as this can cause root rot.
Q: Can I divide my Corydalis Cava?
A: Yes, you can divide Corydalis Cava in the fall or early spring. Dig up the plant and separate the tubers, making sure each division has at least one healthy shoot and root system.
Q: Is Corydalis Cava toxic?
A: The plant is not toxic, but its hollow roots are used in traditional medicine and can have toxic effects if ingested in large amounts.
Related Plants
- Corydalis solida
- Corydalis lutea
- Corydalis ochroleuca
- Corydalis flexuosa
References
- “Corydalis cava,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed September 20, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=243714&isprofile=0&.
- “Corydalis cava,” Royal Horticultural Society, accessed September 20, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/3276/corydalis-cava/details.
- “Corydalis cava,” Plant Heritage, accessed September 20, 2021, https://www.plantheritage.org.uk/plants/corydalis-cava/.
