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Corydalis cava
holewort
A tuberous perennial to 20cm in height, with ternately divided leaves and, in early spring, terminal racemes of white or purple flowers 2.5cm in length
Synonyms
Corydalis bulbosa misappliedFumaria cava
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0–0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Purple White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or West–facing or East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Papaveraceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Corydalis can be annuals, biennials or tuberous or rhizomatous perennials, with ternately or pinnately lobed leaves and racemes of spurred, tubular flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- C Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in containers in an open frame when ripe or by division in autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildflower meadow
- Cottage and informal garden
- Rock garden
- Flower borders and beds
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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