Stem 40-50 cm high. Taproot long and thick, often dessected at the top. Basal leaves petiolate, glaucous 3-pinnatesect, stem leaves shortly petiolate. Inflorescence short, compact, cymose. Flowers yellow or orange-yellow with dark spots. Inner petals dark violet at the top. V - early spring to mid-summer (in St. Petersburgh April to July). Fl - April to May for 2-3 weeks. Fr - June. P - by seed, sown immediately when ripe. Plants flower the second year after sowing. Copiousely self sown. Undemanding as to habitat. Good for spring decoration and for the rock garden. Z 4.

Siberia (Altay) and Central Asia (Tarbagatay). Among shrubs, on rocky places, and in shady ravines.