SafePlants

Sierra Fumewort (Corydalis caseana)

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions Corydalis species generally contain substances that may be poisonous.
• The entire plant is identified as potentially problematic.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions Corydalis species generally contain substances that may be poisonous.
• The entire plant is identified as potentially problematic.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Corydalis caseana A. Gray
• Common Names: Sierra Fumewort, Sierra Corydalis, Fitweed

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Fumariaceae
• Kingdom: (Implied - Plantae)
• Division: Magnoliophyta
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Capnoides caseanum (A.Gray) Greene (Basionym)

Subspecies

• Corydalis caseana subsp. caseana A. Gray – Sierra Fumewort
• Corydalis caseana subsp. brandegei
• Corydalis caseana subsp. brachycarpa
• Corydalis caseana subsp. cusickii (S. Watson) G.B. Ownbey – Cusick's Fumewort

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to northeastern Oregon south to central Sierra Nevada and east to Idaho and Colorado.
• Specifically found in central and northern California.
• Tends to grow in moist environments.
• One subspecies, Corydalis caseana ssp. brandegei, is specific to Colorado.
• Observed along the Anderson trail in the Weiminuche Wilderness.

Morphological Characteristics

• Herbaceous perennial.
• Grows to 30-100cm tall.
• Upright growth habit.
• Showy appearance.
• Blue-green, waxy-powdered, fern-like leaves.
• Showy white to flowers.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Mountain Bumblebee queens visit Sierra Fumewort flowers.

Further Information

• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
• Dave's Garden
• Keir Morse (www.keiriosity.com)
• Discover Life