OBJECTIVETo study the resource and the quality of wild Corydalis yanhusuo distributed in China.

METHODDistribution was observed and samples of wild C. yanhusuo were collected and qualities were evaluated by determining six main alkaloids contained in the samples.

RESULTThe main distribution of wild Corydalis yanhusuo was in the hills around middle and lower reaches of Yangtze River. Its distributive areas were continuously decreasing. The alkaloids contents in the samples varied among different populations.

CONCLUSIONThe alkaloids contents in wild populations of C. yanhusuo are diverse. The main kinds of alkaloids in some wild populations are higher than cultivated ones, which are valuable for breeding. The wild C. yanhusuo propagate well, however they are endangered due to environment problem, and should be protected.