Monkshood Aconitum 'Newry Blue'
ABOUT
Aconitum 'Newry Blue', commonly known as monkshood, is characterized by its striking blue flowers. The blooms have a unique shape, akin to a hood or helmet, which inspired its common name. These blue flowers are dense and form a spike-like cluster. The plant itself has a sturdy and upright stance with glossy, dark green leaves that are deeply divided into lobes or segments, giving them an almost hand-like appearance. The intense blue color of the monkshood's flowers is one of its most distinguishing features, providing a bold splash of color in garden settings. The texture of the leaves is smooth, and they are arranged in a way that complements the overall architecture of the plant, creating an attractive backdrop for the prominent flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Monkshood, Wolfsbane, Aconite
Common names
Aconitum 'Newry Blue'.
ToxicityTo humans
Monkshood, including the variety 'Newry Blue', is highly toxic if ingested. The plant contains potent alkaloids such as aconitine. Symptoms of poisoning can appear almost immediately and may include burning or numbness in the mouth and throat, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle weakness, heart rhythm disorders, and potentially result in severe respiratory and cardiac complications, which can be fatal.
To pets
Monkshood is also highly toxic to pets. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, and cardiac failure. Toxic exposure requires immediate veterinary attention, and if left untreated, can be lethal to an animal.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Aconitum 'Newry Blue', commonly known as Monkshood, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its tall spires of deep blue flowers.
- Pollinator Attraction: The vibrant flowers attract bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination.
- Seasonal Interest: Monkshood provides color and interest in the garden during late summer and autumn when many other plants have finished blooming.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant is able to grow in partially shaded areas where other sun-loving plants might not thrive.
- Cold Hardy: Aconitum 'Newry Blue' is resistant to cold and can survive in cooler climates, making it a versatile addition to many gardens.
- Deer Resistant: The plant is not typically favored by deer, which can help prevent damage in gardens prone to deer visits.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aconite, commonly known as Monkshood, is sometimes used in gardening to create a natural fence or barrier due to its toxicity and the deterrence it offers against animals and pests.
- The plant's extract can be used in extremely diluted forms as a pesticide to protect crops from various insects, though its use is highly regulated due to its toxicity.
- Monkshood flowers can be a deep color addition to cut flower arrangements but require careful handling; florists wear gloves to protect themselves from its poisonous sap.
- In folklore and witchcraft, Monkshood was historically used for protection against werewolves and evil spirits, symbolizing a superstitious deterrent.
- The seeds of Monkshood have been used in traditional fishing practices by some indigenous communities, who crush them and mix with streams to temporarily stun fish for easier capture.
- Dye made from Monkshood's roots was utilized historically for fabrics, especially in ancient Asia, giving a blueish tint to textiles.
- Monkshood's bold appearance has often inspired artists and has been frequently represented in botanical illustrations and garden paintings.
- The vibrant blossoms are sometimes featured in photography, adding a rich blue hue to botanical and garden-themed photo shoots.
- Gardeners may use the plant to create color contrast in perennial borders, taking care to place them in areas less frequented due to their poisonous nature.
- In some traditions, Monkshood was incorporated into ceremonial garb or decor for specific rituals, but with great caution because of its skin-absorbed toxins.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Monkshood is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Monkshood is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Caution: Aconitum, commonly known as Monkshood, is a highly toxic plant, and its symbolism often relates to its poisonous nature. It is a symbol of caution or warning to be careful.
- Protection: Due to its toxicity, it was historically used to ward off evil spirits or enemies, symbolizing protection.
- Deceit: Monkshood's attractive flowers juxtaposed with its dangerous properties can symbolize deceit or hidden dangers.
- Chivalry: In some traditions, Monkshood is associated with chivalry and knightly valor, potentially because of its helmet-shaped flowers.
- Misfortune: Sometimes, it also represents bad luck or misfortune, possibly due to its association with death and toxicity.
WaterMonkshood, commonly known as Aconitum 'Newry Blue', requires consistent moisture, especially during its growing season in spring and summer. It should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water which equals approximately 0.623 gallons per square foot. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. During hot, dry periods, the frequency may increase to twice per week. Adjust the watering schedule to decrease frequency in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
LightMonkshood prefers partially shaded conditions with dappled sunlight; however, it can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The best spot would provide protection from the intense heat of the afternoon sun. A location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade is typically ideal for this plant.
TemperatureMonkshood thrives in a temperature range between 50°F and 65°F but can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 75°F. Sudden temperature fluctuations and extreme cold can be harmful, so it's best to avoid planting in areas prone to these conditions. The ideal growing conditions for Monkshood include cool summers and temperate springs.
PruningMonkshood should be pruned to remove spent flower spikes after blooming to encourage a second flush of flowers and to maintain plant vigor. Dead or damaged stems can also be pruned away to improve air circulation and prevent diseases. The best time to prune is immediately after the main flowering period, usually in late summer or early fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMonkshood 'Newry Blue' thrives in a moist, well-draining soil mix with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of loam, organic compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite to improve drainage would create an ideal growing environment for this plant.
RepottingMonkshood 'Newry Blue' does not generally require frequent repotting. It should be repotted only when it has outgrown its current container, which is typically every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and allow for growth.
Humidity & MistingMonkshood 'Newry Blue' grows best in average garden humidity levels. It does not have specific humidity requirements, but it thrives in outdoor conditions where it can receive natural rainfall and dew.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For Monkshood 'Newry Blue', ensure bright light and cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant Monkshood 'Newry Blue' in partial shade and cool, moist soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleAconitum 'Newry Blue', commonly known as Monkshood, begins its life cycle when the seeds are sown in fertile, well-draining soil, ideally during the spring after the danger of frost has passed. Seedlings emerge after germination and will grow into juvenile plants with characteristic deeply lobed leaves. As the plant matures, it develops a sturdy stem and the leaves become larger and more abundant. By mid to late summer, it reaches the flowering stage, producing tall spires of deep blue to violet hooded flowers that are attractive to pollinators. After pollination, seeds develop and are eventually dispersed, falling close to the parent plant or carried away by wind or wildlife to complete the cycle. During the winter, the plant dies back to the ground, with the roots remaining dormant until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The Aconitum 'Newry Blue', commonly known as Monkshood, is best propagated by dividing the plant’s tuberous roots. This division should be carried out in the late fall after the plant has finished flowering or early spring before new growth begins. Carefully dig up the entire plant, ensuring to keep as much of the root system intact as possible. Wash or brush off the excess soil to reveal the tuberous roots and use a sharp, clean knife to divide the roots into sections, making sure each section has at least one shoot or eye. These divisions can then be replanted at the same depth they were originally growing, typically about 2 to 4 inches deep (5 to 10 centimeters), spacing them at least 12 to 18 inches apart (30 to 46 centimeters). It is crucial to handle all parts of the plant with caution as Monkshood is highly toxic if ingested or if it comes into contact with the skin.
