Yellow corydalis (Pseudofumaria lutea)

Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source

Pruning guide · Perennial

Yellow corydalis: when and how to prune

Pseudofumaria lutea

Yellow corydalis is best pruned in July–August.

Key facts
Pruning monthsJuly–August
FloweringApril–October
Good for bees, butterflies and birdsYes, for bees
Native to BelgiumNo, planted
Poisonous to people and petsYes, take care with children and pets

Yellow corydalis: when to prune it?

In July or August, when the plant has become untidy.

What else to prune in those months? July · August

Yellow corydalis: how to prune it?

  1. Cut the whole plant back to about 5–10 cm above the ground: fresh foliage appears within a few weeks.
  2. Cut off faded racemes to limit self-seeding.
  3. In March remove dead or damaged leaves.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • One pruning period a year: July–August.

What does it mean for wildlife?

  • Yellow corydalis flowers in April–October, when it attracts bees.
  • If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.

Caution: All parts contain alkaloids and are poisonous if eaten. Keep children, dogs, cats and grazing animals away from the plant, and take care when weeding or tidying.

Nearby: related pruning guides

Plant profile: Yellow corydalis · Pruning calendar and basic rules

This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.

Laden…