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Corydalis flavula
A native herbaceous perennial with a small (.5"/1.3cm or so) bright yellow flower that blooms early and continues blooming for a couple of months. The plant ranges from ground cover height up to around 15"/38cm.
Native to the eastern United States. Found in open woods, primarily on rocky or sandy soil. This one was photographed at Stevens Creek Heritage Preserve near Clarks Hill (McCormick County), SC.
Other common names: Yellow Corydalis and Yellow Harlequin. Even small doses of Corydalis may be toxic. Symptoms include trembling and convulsions. Herbal Lore: As is typical for a member of the Poppy order, Yellow Fumewort contains alkaloids. Native Americans placed the root on coals and inhaled the smoke to "clear the head". In earlier times, doctors may have used the astringent root to stop bleeding, for irregular menses, pain, diarrhea and dysentery. These past medicinal uses of Corydalis flavula are presented only for their historical value.
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