Scrambled Eggs
Corydalis aurea
Family: Papaveraceae
What it is like
Corydalis aurea is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.5
Where it is found
Talus slopes, ledges, rocky hillsides, forest clearings, open shores, creek bottoms, gravel pits, road cuts, and burned-over areas, in loose often gravelly soil at elevations of 100 - 3400 metres
N. America - mainly in the west and central areas, from Alaska to California, also east to New York.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
A tea made from the plant is used in the treatment of painful or irregular menstruation, diarrhoea, bronchitis, heart diseases, sore throats and stomach aches. Externally, it is used as a lotion on backaches, hand sores etc and as a gargle for sore throats. Caution is advised in the use of this plant, see the note above on toxicity.
Cardiac: Used in the treatment of heart problems.
Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.
Women's complaints: A very vague title, it deals with a miscellany of problems peculiar to the female sex.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Prefers a moist, well-drained rather light soil, thriving in semi-shade. Grows well in a woodland garden or peat bed. Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits.
Propagating it: Seed - surface sow in situ in the spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Annual/Biennial
Hardiness: 5-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: Semi-shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
Corydalis species are potentially toxic in moderate doses.