Corydalis 'Blue Panther'

Blue Fumitory Fumariaceae

A wonderfully robust Corydalis with flowers of such an intense electric blue that it seems almost to have been painted rather than bred. ‘Blue Panther’ forms handsome, fern-like clumps of fresh green foliage, above which short, branching stems carry tubular, spurred flowers in spring. Unlike many of the more delicate Corydalis, this is a substantial and reliable garden plant, gradually forming a useful colony in cool, shady conditions without becoming a garden thug. It is regarded as a robust hybrid from Germany, probably involving Corydalis elata, although its precise parentage remains uncertain. The plant was already circulating among specialist rock gardeners by the mid-1990s, but its original breeder or raiser has not been reliably documented. Best in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil in partial shade, where it makes an excellent companion for ferns, woodland perennials and spring bulbs. A particularly good choice where ordinary blue is simply not blue enough.

Cultivar origin: Robust hybrid from Germany, probably involving Corydalis elata. Original breeder/raiser undocumented.
Flowering: April–June
Hardiness: H5, approximately −15 to −10°C
Height: 30–40 cm
Spread: 30–45 cm