Monkshood Aconitum 'Stainless Steel'

Names

• Family

  Ranunculaceae

• Synonyms

  Monkshood, Wolfsbane, Queen Of Poisons, Blue Rocket, Devil's Helmet

• Common names

  Aconitum 'Stainless Steel'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Aconitum, commonly known as Monkshood, is highly toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids such as aconitine. Symptoms of Monkshood poisoning can occur rapidly and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a burning sensation in the mouth and stomach, visual disturbances, hypotension, heart palpitations, and severe weakness. In severe cases, paralysis of the heart or respiratory center can occur, which can be fatal.

• To pets

  Aconitum, commonly known as Monkshood, is similarly toxic to pets as it is to humans. The ingestion of any part of the plant can lead to severe poisoning. Symptoms in pets may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures, and cardiac abnormalities. Ingestion of Monkshood can be quickly fatal in pets due to respiratory failure or cardiac arrest, so immediate veterinary attention is crucial if a pet is suspected to have ingested any part of the plant.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Blue

• Height

  3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)

• Spread

  1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  3

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Ornamental Appeal: Features unique steel-blue flowers that add a dramatic touch to gardens.
• Long Blooming: Boasts a lengthy blooming period from mid-summer to early fall.
• Attracts Wildlife: Flowers provide nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
• Hardy Plant: Capable of withstanding colder climates, which makes it suitable for various gardens.
• Height Interest: Can reach up to 4 feet, offering vertical interest in landscaping designs.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, requires minimal care beyond occasional watering and pruning.
• Herbaceous Perennial: Dies back in winter and returns in spring, reducing the need for replanting annually.
• Deer Resistant: Typically not preferred by deer, which helps to protect other garden plants.
• Drought Tolerant: Able to survive periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping or drier climates.

Medical Properties

• This plant is not used for medical purposes

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• An ingredient in ointments used for external application to reduce joint pain and inflammation, taking advantage of its toxic properties when used topically in proper dilutions.
• As a natural pesticide, extracts from Aconitum, also known as monkshood, can be used to deter pests from gardens and crops due to its toxic nature. Caution is advised due to its high toxicity to humans and animals.
• The vibrant flowers of monkshood are used in floral arrangements for events or decoration purposes, being careful to handle with gloves due to toxicity.
• Dye production is a less common use, where the roots of monkshood have been historically used to create a blue dye, although this practice is rare and risky due to the plant’s poisonous attributes.
• A traditional hunting tool for some indigenous communities, who would tip their arrows with the toxic compounds found in monkshood to quickly bring down prey.
• As a photographic subject, the striking blooms of monkshood are often captured in botanical art and photography for their beauty, featuring in garden magazines and plant portfolios.
• In education, this plant is sometimes used in botany classes to teach students about plant defense mechanisms and the ecological role of naturally occurring toxins.
• Aconitum species can be used as companion plants in gardens to help protect more vulnerable plants from herbivorous insects and animals.
• Monkshood might be used in conservation efforts as a way to maintain or restore natural habitats that require species with defensive chemical properties to balance the ecosystem.
• For cultural and historical studies or reenactments, monkshood might play a role in demonstrating ancient practices and the historical uses of plants in various societies.

Feng Shui

The Monkshood is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Monkshood is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Caution and Danger: Aconitums, commonly known as Monkshood, are infamous for their toxic properties. They symbolize caution because ingesting the plant can be hazardous, reminding us to be careful in unknown or potentially dangerous situations.
• Protection: Historically, Monkshood was used to protect against evil spirits and creatures. It symbolizes a shield against the unseen negative forces.
• Deceit and Mistrust: Due to its poisonous nature, Monkshood also represents deceit. It may appear beautiful, but it harbors a deadly secret, much like a situation or person that seems trustworthy but is not.
• Power: Monkshood is often associated with the power of witches and sorcerers. It symbolizes potent magic and the ability to control situations, as it was believed to be a key ingredient in many magical potions.