The lark spur is a versatile genus of plants, some of whose species also occur as wild plants in Germany. We show you how to care for the corydalis in the garden.
Species of the Corydalis genus (Corydalis) are quite robust, easy to care for and also thrive in shady locations. We show what you should consider when caring for them and present the most beautiful types and varieties.
Cornalis: flower, origin and properties
The larkspurs form a genus within the poppy family (Papaveraceae) and occur throughout the Northern Hemisphere and partially in South Africa. The spur typical of the flowers has given the herbaceous plant its name. It is reminiscent of both the crested lark and the claw of the skylark. Some Corydalis species are native to Europe and grow as wild perennials in nature. Other varieties are bred specifically for the garden. The genus has 300 to 400 species, which bring an enormous variety of colors with them. There are spurs in yellow, blue or white and many other variants. As a native wild plant, the larkspur is also a valuable insect pasture. Some species develop tubers and appear as early as spring, while other species develop rhizomes and continue to bear foliage later in the year. Also, corydalis can be either annual or perennial. Flowering time and growth habit vary from species to species. Lark spurs are often compound and lobed or pinnate.
The most beautiful Corydalis species and varieties
There are not only numerous types of larkspur, but also varieties that enrich the garden with their flowers. We present the most beautiful types and varieties.
- Hollow corydalis (Corydalis cava): The hollow corydalis is widespread in Germany and also occurs in nature. The name comes from the cavity inside the tuber. The deciduous corydalis flowers in violet shades from March to May and grows in clumps. He prefers a partially shaded toshady location.
- Yellow Corydalis (Corydalis lutea): As the name suggests, the yellow corydalis also produces yellow flowers. It shows its flowers in summer between May and September. The yellow larkspur appears bushy due to its richly branched shoots. It prefers a brighter spot that can even be sunny.
- Fern Corydalis (Corydalis cheilanthifolia): The name says it all with this species too. The leaves look confusingly similar to the leaves of ferns. Fern Corydalis displays its yellow flowers between April and June and retains its foliage through winter, which then changes color from green to brown.
- Blue Corydalis (Corydalis elata 'Blue Summit'): Between May and July the steel blue flowers of the cultivar 'Blue Summit' appear . The scent of the flowers is reminiscent of bitter almonds. The blue corydalis likes a semi-shady or shady place, for example under a deciduous tree. It can reach a height of 30 to 40 cm.
- Fingered Corydalis (Corydalis solida 'GP Baker'): The bright red flowers of the cultivar 'GP Baker' appear between March and May. The fingered corydalis also occurs naturally in Germany, but it is much less common than the hollow corydalis.
Plant Larkspur
If you plant a larkspur, you should first find out about the species. Since there are many different types and varieties, the requirements can vary. However, certain conditions are preferred by most species.
It is best to plant the Corydalis in autumn between September and October. It does not matter whether it is a tuber or a young plant. The right location for the larkspur is semi-shady - some species like it sunnier, others can get by with less light. The soil should be fresh, permeable, humus and nutritious and be able to hold water well in summer. Between the plants you should look forGroup plantings should be at least 10 cm apart, but preferably 20 to 30 cm apart. Before you use the plant, you can work some compost into the soil to make it easier for the corydalis to get started. After planting, the substrate is watered and a layer of mulch, for example leaves, is applied. This protects the plants from the cold in winter and from drying out in summer.
If you want to plant the corydalis in a pot, you should first put a drainage layer in the pot. These can be pieces of pottery or stones that ensure that the water can drain off easily. The larkspur does not like waterlogging, as this can lead to rotting roots. Then plant it in a humus-rich, well-drained substrate. For example, our Plantura organic compost is suitable, which has a particularly high proportion of organic matter and supplies the larkspur with important nutrients. It consists of natural raw materials and does not require any peat at all. The organic soil is not only good for plants and gardens, but also for the environment. You can also use the compost to help start the bed. It is best to add a third of sand or crushed expanded clay to improve permeability.
The most important care measures
The Corydalis is a fairly easy-care plant for the garden. However, regular watering is essential when caring for Corydalis so that plenty of flowers are formed and the plants remain he althy.
Garden plants, but especially the corydalis in pots, should be watered regularly without waterlogging. In summer you can check the substrate every day or two. It should always be slightly damp and watered with tap water as soon as the top layer of soil feels dry. For potted plants, remove the excess water in the saucer.
Whether you want to cut the corydalis depends on your ideas. Pods form after the flowering period. The seeds they contain ensure new plants in the area for the next season. If you want to prevent or curb this self-seeding, cut off faded flowers as early as possible. This can also prolong the flowering period. In the fall, when all the foliage has withered, you can cut the plants just above ground level.
The larkspur does not need many nutrients. Nevertheless, you should take him with you occasionallyprovide the essential nutritional elements to keep enjoying your buds. At the beginning of the growing season in early spring, you can work a slow-release fertilizer into the soil once a year. Our Plantura organic flower fertilizer, for example, is a good granular fertilizer. The nutrients are released here slowly and are thus available over a long period of time. The nutrient composition promotes leaf, flower and root growth. If you keep the larkspur in the bucket, you can repot it occasionally. The fresh soil then brings new nutrients with it.
Are Larkspurs poisonous?
The larkspur is poisonous, especially in the root or tuber area. However, the toxic substances are also found in smaller quantities in the above-ground parts of the plant. Gastrointestinal complaints may occur after consumption.
Cornspur: healing properties and uses
In the past, larkspur was said to have healing properties, but it is no longer used today. Due to the calming effect of the substances contained, the larkspur was used for anesthesia and the tubers were used as food.
The marigold (Calendula) is also a valuable insect pasture. You can find out everything about the pretty daisy family in our profile.