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Slender fumewort

Corydalis micrantha (Engelm.) A. Gray subsp. micrantha

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Slender fumewort flowers
Slender fumewort
Slender fumewort
Slender fumewort inflorescence
Slender fumewort

Morphology

Stem
Erect to ascending, usually several, simple or sparingly branched, glabrous, often waxy.
Leaves
Alternate, stalked below, sessile above, oblong to ovate in outline, pinnately compound; primary segments 2 to 3.5 inches long, divided again; smallest segments mostly elliptic, glabrous, often waxy.
Inflorescence
Racemes, 6-20-flowered, terminal.
Flower
Irregular; sepals 2, ovate, rough, withering early; corollas with 2 pairs of pale yellow petals; spurred petal prominent, about 1/2 inch long; spur tip distinctly spherical; stamens 6, in 2 groups of 3.
Fruit
Capsules, 1/2 to 1 inch long, erect or upward-curved; seeds numerous, circular, shiny, black.

Ecology

Habitat
Disturbed sites, roadsides, open woods, and fields, in sandy soils.
Distribution
East 2/3 of Kansas.

Additional Notes

Comments

From Greek korydallis or "crested lark", because of the resemblance of the spur on the flower to the hind claw of a lark. Slender fumewort is one of the earliest blooming spring flowers.

Special Notes: See Large-bracted corydalis
Quick Facts
Plant Type
Wildflower
Family
Fumariaceae - Fumewort Family
Life Span
Annual
Height
4-12 inches
Last Updated
2007-10-12
Color Groups
Yellow Wildflowers
Flowering Period
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Blooms: March, April