About

Corydalis flexuosa 'China Blue' is a rhizomatous perennial known for its mat-forming growth habit and finely divided leaves that exhibit a hint of purple. The foliage typically dies back during the summer months. In late spring to early summer, this plant produces clusters of light blue, two-lipped flowers, each measuring approximately 2.5 cm in length, supported on leafy stems that can reach heights of up to 30 cm.

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

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

Plant details

Plant type
Alpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Matforming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Rock garden, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in containers in an open frame when ripe or by division in autumn
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free