Montane, subalpine. Woodlands. Spring.
Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, May 1, 2006.

Corydalis aurea is often passed by as just another Pea, but it is not a Pea. It is in the Fumariaceae Family and is a relative of the Eastern U.S. Dutchman’s Breeches. Corydalis is not common in our area, but its numerous golden yellow, spurred tubular flowers make it a treat when found.  Look for it in disturbed areas of the mountains.

"Corydalis" is of ancient Greek origin and apparently refers to the spur on the claw of a Lark ("Larkspur").  "Aurea" is Latin for "golden".

Montane, subalpine. Woodlands. Spring.
Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, May 1, 2006.

Semi-desert, foothills. Woodlands, openings. Spring.
BLM lands near the San Juan River, Utah, April 6, 2005.

This Corydalis is supposedly distinguished form the above species in several ways: it is found at lower elevations than Corydalis aurea, and its flowers are more robust, have longer spurs, and stand higher above the leaves.  In sandy areas, even those disturbed by cattle, Corydalis curvisiliqua can be abundant, especially in the sheltered protection of such shrubs as Sagebrush. From a distance then, the shrubs seem to be flowering bright yellow.

The Latin "curvi" "siliqua" refers to the strongly upward-curved seed pod.

Semi-desert, foothills. Woodlands, openings. Spring.
Canyonlands National Park, Utah, April 12, 2005.

The strongly curved seed pod can be seen at the bottom center.