

OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 



Corydalis Solida. 



Common Name, FUMITORY ; Nat. Ord. FUMARIACE M. 



73 



THIS is said to be a British species, but it is a doubtful, as well 

 as somewhat scarce one. Though but a small plant of the height 

 of 6in. or 8in., it is very effective, being compact with finely-cut 

 foliage of a pale glaucous green, and the stems pleasingly 

 tinted. For some weeks in early spring it forms a graceful 

 object on rockwork, where it seems to thrive well. 



The flowers, which are purple, are not showy ; still, they are 

 effective from the way in which they are borne, as the illustra- 

 tion (Fig. 30) will show. Its specific name is in reference to its 



FIG. 30. CORTDALIS SOLIDA. 

 (One-half natural size.) 



root, which is bulbous and solid. Many of the Fumitories have 

 remarkably hollow roots, and one of the old names of this genus 

 is written " Hollo we roote." When the flowers fade the whole 

 plant withers, nothing being left but the bulbous roots to com- 

 plete their ripening ; still, this should not hinder its extensive 

 cultivation, because it not only appears in its best form when 

 flowers are rare, but also because it is so pleasingly distinct. 

 I find it to do well on rockwork, also in well-drained borders of 



