Incised fumewort (Corydalis incisa)

Incised fumewort

An unwelcome intruder, incised fumewort spreads rapidly through its seeds, which are dispersed from the plant and launched far and wide. It grows quickly and crowds out native plants growing in the woodland understory. This plant is not commonly sold in nurseries in the United States, but has been naturalized and grows along the east coast. It has purple, tube-shaped flowers, which many find attractive, but caution should be taken in planting the incised fumewort due to its invasive nature.

Scientific classification

Species

Incised fumewort (Corydalis incisa)

Buttercups, poppies and allies

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Biennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

15 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

8 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Incised fumewort

Distribution of Incised fumewort

Distribution Map

Incised fumewort is naturally found in East Asia, more specifically within regions of the Korean Peninsula, Japanese Archipelago, and parts of China. It has also established itself beyond these areas, thriving in various non-native regions around the world, often as an escapee from cultivation and sometimes turning invasive.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Thickets and bamboo forests in lowland and foothills.

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Interesting Facts

Incised fumewort is an introduced species to the United States. When the seed pods are ripe, they will burst open and expel the seeds. The pods all contain a chemical that is attractive to ants, who then will dispurse the seeds even further, making it very easy for this plant to escape garden beds and other areas of cultivation. It easily naturalizes and displaces other species.

Name Story

Incised fumewort: Incised fumewort is also known as Corydalis incisa. The genus name, Corydalis, comes from the Greek word which means “creased lark,” because the flowers have lark-like spurs. The specific epithet, incisa, refers to being deeply cut.

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Toxicity

The plant incised fumewort is mildly toxic to humans, dogs, and cats due to toxic alkaloids present throughout. Ingestion causes gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms in humans, and discomfort in pets. Immediate veterinary care is recommended for pets that consume incised fumewort to ensure the best possible outcome.

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Care Guide for Incised fumewort

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Incised fumewort originates from moist woodlands and prefers evenly moist soil, with moderate drought tolerance. Weekly watering is essential during its active growing season to maintain soil moisture and support healthy growth.

Fertilize: For incised fumewort, use balanced fertilizers during active growth and high nitrogen in early spring. Fertilize bi-weekly at quarter strength, then monthly in fall, avoiding over-fertilization. Seasonal adjustments are crucial, and dilute properly, apply to moist soil, observing leaf color as a health indicator.

Pruning: Incised fumewort features delicate foliage and tubular flowers. Prune in early to late spring by removing damaged stems and overcrowded areas to enhance air circulation. Post-flowering pruning shapes the plant, boosts blooming, and prevents self-seeding, ensuring a tidy appearance and maximizing ornamental value.

Propagation: Incised fumewort, from the Fumariaceae family, thrives when fresh seeds are sown in well-draining soil, mimicking woodland conditions. Careful moisture management and partial shade are crucial for seedlings. Gradual outdoor acclimation enhances young plant survival.

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Images of Incised fumewort

Distribution of Incised fumewort

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Incised fumewort

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