Corydalis ambigua

Physical Characteristics

Corydalis ambigua is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from March to June, and the seeds ripen from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. 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.

Distribution

E. Asia - Japan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - cooked[46, 61, 105, 177].

Medicinal Uses

Alterative Analgesic Antiperiodic Antispasmodic Astringent Contraceptive Deobstruent Diuretic Emmenagogue Sedative Tonic Alterative, antiperiodic, astringent, deobstruent, diuretic, emmenagogue, sedative, tonic[178]. The root is analgesic, antispasmodic and sedative[218]. The tuber has a history of over a thousand years use in mitigating pain[218]. This species was ranked 10th in a test of 250 potential antifertility drugs[218].

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, there is a report that Corydalis species are potentially toxic in moderate doses[222].