Fumewort 'George Baker' Corydalis solida subsp. solida 'George Baker'

Water

Fumewort (Corydalis solida 'George Baker') prefers consistently moist soil during its growth period in the spring but does not like to be waterlogged. Water this plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, which might be about once a week depending on weather conditions. A good method of watering is to use a watering can to gently apply water directly to the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage. During its dormant period in the summer, watering should be reduced significantly. An approximation of watering would be to provide the plant with about one gallon of water every week to ten days during the active growth phase, adjusting as needed for rainfall and temperature.

Light

Fumewort thrives in dappled sunlight or partial shade. The best spot for this plant would be under the canopy of deciduous trees where it can receive filtered light. Full sun can often be too intense for Fumewort and can lead to scorching of the leaves, while full shade may result in poor flowering.

Temperature

Fumewort prefers a cool to moderate temperature range, ideally between 50°F and 75°F. It can survive winter temperatures down to about 20°F provided the ground isn't prone to repeated thawing and freezing which can heave and damage the roots. During the growth period, keeping the plant in this temperature range will promote good health and flowering.

Pruning

Pruning Fumewort is generally not necessary. However, after flowering, you can remove the spent flower stems to keep the plant tidy if desired. No regular pruning schedule is required for this plant since it goes dormant in the summer, and any remaining foliage will naturally die back.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Fumewort (Corydalis solida 'George Baker') should be well-draining and fertile, with a composition of loam mixed with organic matter such as leaf mold or compost. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Fumewort typically does not need frequent repotting; it can be repotted every 2-3 years or when you notice that the tubers have filled up the pot.

Humidity & Misting

Fumewort prefers moderate humidity levels but can tolerate a range of conditions as long as the soil moisture is maintained and there is good air circulation.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Fumewort in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.

• Outdoor

  Plant Fumewort in partial shade with moist, fertile soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-8 USDA

Life cycle

Corydalis solida subsp. solida 'George Baker', commonly known as Fumewort 'George Baker', begins its life cycle in the form of a tuber, which lies dormant underground during the summer. In early spring, the tuber sprouts and gives rise to foliage and distinctive pinkish-red flowers, which attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which is dispersed by various means, including wind and animals. Once seeds are spread, they germinate to form new plants, completing the sexual phase of the life cycle. The foliage then dies back by late spring as the plant enters a period of dormancy, conserving energy within the tuber. This dormancy lasts until the following spring, when the cycle begins anew with the emergence of fresh shoots.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• Corydalis solida subsp. solida 'George Baker', commonly known as Fumewort, is typically propagated through division of its tubers. The best time to propagate is in the summer after the foliage has died back, indicating that the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the clump of tubers and gently pull them apart, ensuring that each division has at least one growth point. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were originally growing — about 2 inches (5 centimeters) deep — and water them thoroughly. This method ensures that the distinctive color and characteristics of 'George Baker' are maintained in the new plants.