Monkshood Aconitum napellus
ABOUT
Aconitum napellus, commonly known as monkshood, is a striking perennial plant known for its distinctive floral display and foliage. It boasts a lush mound of deeply divided, dark green leaves that are palmate in shape, resembling the outstretched fingers of a hand, giving the plant a rich, textured appearance at its base. The most striking feature of monkshood is its vivid, helmet-shaped flowers. These blooms appear in dense clusters atop sturdy stems that rise above the foliage. The flowers are usually a deep, rich blue or purple color, although they can also be found in shades of white, pink, or yellow. Their unique shape has a hooded or cowled appearance, which is where the common moniker "monkshood" originates. The sepals of monkshood are petal-like and give the flower its colorful and eye-catching display, while the true petals are small and contained within the hood-like structure, often curled into a tube with nectar at the bottom. The overall look of the monkshood plant is both elegant and dramatic, making it a popular choice for gardens and borders where its intense color and striking form can create captivating visual interest.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Monkshood, Wolfsbane, Devil's Helmet, Blue Rocket, Queen Of Poisons, Aconite, Helmet Flower, Friar's Cap, Monk's Blood, Soldier's Cap, Turk's Cap, Leap Year Plant, Women's Bane
Common names
Aconitum anglicum, Aconitum stoerkianum, Aconitum napellus var. vulgare, Aconitum vulgare, Aconitum pyramidalis, Aconitum neomontanum, Aconitum firmum, Aconitum laxiflorum, Aconitum variegatum, Aconitum paniculatum, Aconitum pictum, Aconitum ferox.
ToxicityTo humans
Monkshood is highly toxic to humans if ingested, and all parts of the plant, especially roots and seeds, contain potent alkaloids such as aconitine. Symptoms of monkshood poisoning can appear very quickly and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a feeling of burning, tingling or numbness in the face and extremities, and severe gastrointestinal discomfort. As the toxicity progresses, it can lead to heart arrhythmia, hypotension, and respiratory failure, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. Even handling the plant may cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction, so caution is advised.
To pets
Monkshood is equally toxic to pets as it is to humans. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, they are likely to suffer from similar symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and potentially seizures. In more severe cases, ingestion can lead to heart arrhythmia, paralysis, and respiratory failure, which can be fatal. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if a pet is suspected of consuming any part of monkshood.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
3-4 feet [90-120 cm]
Spread
1-2 feet [30-60 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Aconitum napellus, commonly known as monkshood, is a tall and stately plant with striking blue or purple flowers that add visual interest to garden settings.
- Wildlife attraction: The flowers of monkshood provide nectar for bees and other pollinating insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Shade tolerance: Monkshood can thrive in partial shade, making it a good choice for garden spots that don't receive full sunlight.
- Cultural and historical significance: The plant has a rich history in folklore and has been used in gardens for centuries, giving it a place in historical or educational gardens.
- Seasonal interest: Monkshood typically blooms in the late summer to early fall, providing color and interest in the garden at a time when other plants may be past their prime.
Medical Properties- Analgesic: Aconitum napellus, commonly known as monkshood, has been used historically for pain relief.
- Anti-inflammatory: It has been claimed to reduce inflammation in traditional medicine systems.
- Febrifuge: The plant has been used historically to reduce fever.
- Diuretic: Monkshood has been known to have diuretic properties, increasing the excretion of urine.
- Cardiac depressant: It has the ability to slow heart rate and has been used in traditional medicine for cardiac symptoms.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aconitum napellus, commonly known as monkshood, has been used historically as a poison for arrowheads to increase their lethality during hunting or warfare.
- The plant's vibrant flowers can be used for ornamental purposes in gardens, particularly in shaded or semi-shaded areas.
- Reflecting its folklore associations, monkshood is sometimes included in superstition-based protective rituals against werewolves and evil spirits.
- In dyeing, the roots of the monkshood plant have been used as a source of a blue dye for fabrics.
- Monkshood has been a feature in literature and poetry, symbolizing dangers that can be hidden behind beauty, as the plant is attractive yet toxic.
- Due to its toxicity, it has been used as an ingredient in pest control to deter herbivorous animals from gardens and crops.
- Folklore suggests that monkshood was an ingredient in the mythical flying ointments used by witches to supposedly give them the ability to fly.
- In ancient times, it was used in hunting rituals and ceremonies to honor the spirit of the hunted animals.
- The distinct shape of the flowers has inspired artists and has been depicted in various forms of art and decoration.
- Monkshood has been involved in historical murder cases, leading to its interesting albeit macabre inclusion in true crime studies and stories.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiMonkshood is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityMonkshood is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Caution: Aconitum napellus, commonly known as Monkshood, has historically been used in poisons, so it often symbolizes caution or danger due to its toxic nature.
- Misfortune: Due to its deadly properties, Monkshood is sometimes seen as an omen of bad luck or representative of misfortune.
- Protection: In some traditions, Monkshood is thought to ward off evil spirits or protect against werewolves and other supernatural creatures.
- Deceit: The plant's attractive appearance belies its lethal nature, so it can be symbolic of deceit or hidden intentions.
WaterMonkshood, commonly known as Aconitum napellus, prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Aim to water it once or twice a week, depending on the climate and weather conditions, ensuring that you provide enough water to reach the roots without causing waterlogging. Generally, this could mean using about 1 gallon of water per plant for each watering session. It's important to adjust the watering frequency during hotter, drier periods as the plant may require more water to prevent it from wilting. During the winter, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant and requires less moisture.
LightMonkshood thrives best in partial shade to full sun; however, it appreciates some afternoon shade in hotter climates. Ideal lighting conditions involve bright, indirect light or few hours of direct morning sunlight, avoiding the intense midday sun. A spot that receives filtered light through tree canopies or dappled sunlight is perfect, especially in regions with intense summer sun.
TemperatureMonkshood flourishes in cooler temperatures and can survive across a range of conditions. It tolerates a minimum temperature down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit and can endure up to an approximate maximum of 90 degrees Fahrenheit. For optimal growth, Monkshood prefers temperatures that stay between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit and should be protected from extreme heat.
PruningPruning Monkshood is necessary to maintain plant health and encourage better flowering. Deadheading spent blooms can promote a second bloom period. After the first frost, cut back the foliage to the ground. Pruning should be done once flowering has ceased, typically in late fall or early winter. Remember to wear gloves when handling the plant, as all parts of Monkshood are highly toxic.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMonkshood thrives in consistently moist, fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of loam, compost, and a little sand is ideal to facilitate drainage while retaining adequate moisture.
RepottingMonkshood does not require frequent repotting and can remain in the same pot for several years unless it becomes root-bound. Generally, repotting every 2-3 years is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingMonkshood prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable to different humidity conditions as long as the soil moisture is sufficient.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light, maintain moist soil, and ensure good airflow for Monkshood.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, provide moist, fertile soil, and shelter Monkshood from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleAconitum napellus, commonly known as monkshood, begins its life as a seed, which upon germination in early spring, grows into a young plant with a rosette of leaves at ground level. As the plant matures, it develops a sturdy, leafy stem which can reach up to 1 meter in height, and it forms a deep and extensive root system. In the summer months, monkshood produces distinctive hood-like blue or purple flowers atop its tall stems. Following pollination, which is often carried out by bees, the flowers develop into follicles containing numerous small, black seeds. These seeds are then dispersed by wind, water, or sometimes by animals, leading to the colonization of new areas. Monkshood is a perennial plant, and after the above-ground parts die back in autumn, the plant will survive the winter in the form of its root system and re-emerge the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method of propagation for Aconitum napellus, commonly known as Monkshood, is by division. The best time to propagate Monkshood by division is in the early spring as the plant emerges from dormancy. To propagate, carefully dig up an established clump and use a sharp knife or spade to divide the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least a couple of growing points or shoots. After division, the sections should be immediately replanted at the same depth they were previously growing and watered thoroughly. This method allows the gardener to rapidly increase their stock of plants, and the divisions can typically expect to flower in their first season after planting.
