Overview

Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron' is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Corydalis, part of the Papaveraceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants and rock garden.

About

This compact, evergreen perennial develops a mound of delicately divided gray-green foliage. From late spring to early summer, it produces fragrant, tubular blue flowers that are grouped along upright red stems.

About the genus

Corydalis includes annuals, biennials, and perennials that can be either tuberous or rhizomatous. The plants feature leaves that are either ternately or pinnately lobed, and they produce racemes adorned with spurred, tubular flowers.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Corydalis

Sunlight
Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand, Clay
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Fragrance
Flower

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron'

Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial shade
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by division
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free but slugs and snails may damage young growth
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron'?

Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial shade.

Where is the best place to plant Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron'?

Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron' prefers partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron' need?

Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam, sand and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron'?

No pruning required.

How big does Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron' grow?

Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron' reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron' hardy in the UK?

Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron' has a UK hardiness rating of H5.

How do I propagate Corydalis curviflora subsp. rosthornii 'Blue Heron'?

Propagate by division.