Malkensis Corydalis Corydalis malkensis

Water

Corydalis malkensis, commonly known as Fumewort, requires moist but well-drained soil, mimicking its natural woodland habitat. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may roughly translate to once a week depending on the environmental conditions. Each watering session should provide enough water to moisten the soil thoroughly, which could be approximately 1-2 gallons for a mature plant, depending on the size and the pot. During the growing season in spring and summer, you might need to water more frequently, whereas in winter, you can reduce watering as the plant goes dormant.

Light

Fumewort thrives best in partial shade, replicating its native environment under woodland canopies. The ideal spot for the plant is in dappled sunlight, where it receives bright indirect light without the harshness of direct afternoon sun. Morning sunlight with afternoon shade or a spot that gets filtered light throughout the day is optimal. Overexposure to strong sunlight can lead to leaf scorch, while too much shade might reduce flowering.

Temperature

Fumewort best grows in cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 75°F. It can withstand minimum temperatures down to around 32°F, making it somewhat frost-tolerant. However, it may not survive extreme heat, particularly temperatures consistently above 80°F. The best ambient temperature conditions for this plant would be a cool environment that doesn't fluctuate into extremes of hot or cold.

Pruning

Pruning Fumewort isn't strictly necessary but can be useful for aesthetic reasons or to remove spent flowers and dead foliage. Pruning can be done after the plant has flowered in early summer to tidy up the plant and encourage a second flush of blooms. Cut back the foliage to within a few inches of the ground after flowering or when the leaves start to yellow. Deadheading regularly during the flowering season can also promote more blooms.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Corydalis malkensis, commonly known as Corydalis, thrives in a well-draining, moisture-retentive soil mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat or coir, and one part sharp sand or perlite is recommended for optimal growth.

Repotting

Corydalis should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and to accommodate its growing root system. The best time to repot is in the spring, just as the plant begins to show new growth.

Humidity & Misting

Corydalis prefers a moderately humid environment. Ideally, the humidity level should be between 45% and 65% for optimal growth. Avoid placing the plant in overly dry conditions as it can stress the plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Corydalis in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade; keep soil moist but well-drained.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA

Life cycle

Corydalis malkensis, commonly known as Malkensis Fumewort, begins its life as a seed that typically requires a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Upon germination, a radicle emerges and develops into a small root system, while cotyledons provide initial nutrients as the first true leaves develop. As a perennial herb, it enters a vegetative stage where foliage expands and the plant establishes itself, thriving in shady, well-drained locations. After reaching maturity, Malkensis Fumewort produces delicate, tube-shaped flowers, typically in spring, which are pollinated by insects, leading to the formation of fruit capsules containing numerous small seeds. These seeds are dispersed by various means such as wind, water, or animal movement, completing the reproductive phase. The plant then enters a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, with above-ground parts dying back and underground tubers or rhizomes surviving through the winter to sprout again during the next growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Corydalis malkensis, commonly known as fumewort, is often propagated through seed since it can be difficult to divide due to its delicate tuberous roots. The optimal time for sowing seeds is in the fall, allowing them to undergo a natural stratification process over the winter months, which helps to break seed dormancy and promotes germination in the spring. To propagate fumewort by seed, selection of a well-draining soil mix is crucial. The seeds are thinly scattered over the soil surface and then lightly covered with soil or fine grit. The container should be watered gently to avoid disturbing the seeds and placed in a cold frame or another protected outdoor area. Seeds require patience as they may take several months to germinate. Once seedlings emerge and are large enough to handle, they can be individually potted and gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before planting in their final location.