Golden Corydalis
Corydalis aurea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Golden corydalis is a delicate native wildflower with finely divided, fern-like foliage and clusters of bright yellow tubular flowers. This compact perennial blooms from spring through mid-summer, creating cheerful color in partially shaded areas. It works well as a groundcover or accent plant in naturalized gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Golden Corydalis takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Delicate appearance may look too wild or weedy for formal landscapes
- Small stature can appear unkempt compared to traditional landscaping
- May not provide consistent visual structure HOAs expect
Wildlife value
The tubular yellow flowers attract bees and occasionally hummingbirds during its long blooming period from April through July. Its nectar-rich blooms provide valuable early to mid-season pollinator support.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Golden Corydalis fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.