Wolf's bane Aconitum lycoctonum subsp. neapolitanum
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the Wolf's Bane has a striking and distinctive appearance. It features a robust stem that is upright and sturdy, supporting the overall structure of the plant. One of its most prominent features is the lush foliage. The leaves are deeply lobed, resembling a hand with fingers spread out, providing a rich green backdrop to the inflorescences. What's especially striking about this plant are the flowers, which come together in a raceme, a kind of unbranched flower cluster. These flowers are shaped like helmets or hoods, a signature look for this species. Their color is typically a soft purple to violet blue, adding a splash of cool-toned hues to the scenery. The plant also bears fruits, which are capsule-like in form and contain numerous small seeds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Southern Wolfsbane, Neapolitan Monkshood, Italian Aconite
Common names
Aconitum anthora var. neapolitanum, Aconitum neapolitanum, Aconitum variegatum subsp. neapolitanum
ToxicityTo humans
Aconitum lycoctonum subsp. neapolitanum, commonly known as Wolfsbane, is highly toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids, with aconitine being the most dangerous. If ingested, Wolfsbane can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The alkaloids also affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms like dizziness, confusion, weakness, and seizures. The cardiovascular system is particularly at risk; poisoning can result in heart palpitations, arrhythmias, and potentially fatal changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Ingesting any part of Wolfsbane requires immediate medical attention, as it can be life-threatening.
To pets
Wolfsbane is equally toxic to pets as to humans. If a pet, such as a cat or dog, ingests any part of the plant, they can experience severe and potentially fatal symptoms. The initial signs of poisoning may include salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea. As the toxins affect the nervous system, pets may display signs such as muscle weakness, loss of coordination, and difficulty breathing. Cardiovascular effects can be severe, leading to heart rhythm disturbances and a drop in blood pressure. If a pet ingests Wolfsbane, immediate veterinary attention is critical due to the high risk of death without prompt treatment.
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
3-7
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Known as Wolfsbane, Aconitum lycoctonum subsp. neapolitanum is often grown in gardens for its attractive foliage and blue to violet flowers that add beauty to the landscape.
- Wildlife support: The plant serves as a food source for pollinators such as bees, which feed on its nectar while contributing to the pollination of other plants in the vicinity.
- Traditional uses: In regions where Wolfsbane is native, it has been used historically for various traditional practices apart from its medicinal uses (which are excluded here).
- Educational interest: It can be used in botanical studies to educate about plant biology, taxonomy, and the importance of plant diversity in ecosystems.
- Cultural significance: Wolfsbane may hold cultural importance in certain traditions or folklore, adding to the intangible heritage of a region.
Medical Properties- Analgesic: Traditional use for pain relief, due to alkaloids that may affect the nervous system.
- Anti-inflammatory: Historically used to reduce inflammation, possibly related to its bioactive compounds.
- Febrifuge: Used in folk medicine to reduce fever, attributable to its potential influence on the hypothalamus.
- Diuretic: Employed in herbal medicine to promote urine production and relieve fluid retention.
- Anodyne: Utilized in the past as a pain-soothing agent, although safety and efficacy are questionable.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aconitum also known as Wolfsbane can be used as a natural insecticide, particularly in gardens and near other plants to help protect them from various types of pests.
- The plant has been historically used as a component in arrow poisons, for hunting large game due to its toxic properties.
- Extracts from Wolfsbane have been used as a dye for fabrics, providing a source of blue or green pigments.
- In folklore, Wolfsbane is said to protect against werewolves and evil spirits, and has been used in protective charms and rituals.
- The plant's essence is sometimes included in perfumes, relying on its strong and distinct smell to produce unique fragrances.
- Wolfsbane is utilized in the practice of witchcraft and pagan traditions, where it is used in various ceremonial aspects and as a ritual herb.
- The plant has been incorporated into garden designs for its tall and striking flowers, adding aesthetic value to landscapes.
- Wolfsbane is sometimes used in specialized photography, where photographers are looking to capture the unique aspects of poisonous plants.
- The seeds of the plant have been experimented with as a natural rodenticide, although care must be taken due to its toxicity.
- Due to its reputation, Wolfsbane is featured in cultural festivals and events that celebrate plant lore and history, such as medieval fairs.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe wolf's bane is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe wolf's bane is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Caution: Aconitum, commonly known as Wolfsbane, is a highly poisonous plant. Its association with poison symbolizes the need for caution and circumspection in life or new ventures.
- Protection: Historically, Wolfsbane was thought to repel werewolves and was used as a protective charm against evil spirits and creatures, symbolizing protection against harm and negative influences.
- Deception: Given its toxic nature and sometimes beautiful appearance, Wolfsbane represents deception, reminding us that things aren't always what they seem.
- Misfortune: Due to its lethal potential, it is also linked to bad luck and misfortune, symbolizing the darker side of fate.
- Witchcraft: The plant has a historical connection to witchcraft and magic, symbolizing mysterious power, enchantment, and the unknown.
WaterThe Italian Monkshood should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. During the growing season, generally from spring to early fall, providing about one to two gallons of water per week should suffice, depending on the climate and soil moisture levels. Over the winter months, reduce watering significantly, and only water if the soil is very dry, as the plant is less active and requires less moisture. Always avoid waterlogging, as this can promote root rot in the Italian Monkshood.
LightItalian Monkshood thrives in partial shade with protection from intense afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage. Ideal locations offer morning sun and dappled light or full shade during the hottest part of the day. If you live in a cooler climate, the plant can tolerate more sun, but in warmer regions, ensure it's placed in a spot where it receives ample shade.
TemperatureItalian Monkshood prefers cooler conditions and grows well in temperatures ranging between 50°F to 75°F. The plant can survive short periods of higher temperatures but sustained heat above this range can stress it. It's hardy down to about -30°F and can withstand frost and cold winters. Ensure that it's planted in an area that doesn't frequently exceed these temperature ranges for optimal growth.
PruningPruning Italian Monkshood is mainly done to remove spent flowers and to maintain plant health and aesthetics. Deadheading the spent blooms can encourage a second round of flowering. Prune back the plant in late fall or early winter, cutting back the stems to just above ground level after the foliage has died back. It's not necessary to prune frequently; once at the end of the season is sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAconitum, commonly known as Wolfsbane, thrives in a soil mix consisting of equal parts loam, peat, and sharp sand, providing good drainage and aeration. It prefers a soil pH of 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingWolfsbane doesn't require frequent repotting; once every 2-3 years is adequate to refresh the soil and accommodate growth.
Humidity & MistingWolfsbane prefers moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%, for optimal growth without the need for extremely high humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Plant Wolfsbane in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; ensure soil is well-draining but moist.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleAconitum lycoctonum subsp. neapolitanum, commonly known as the Italian Aconite or Wolf's Bane, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination in spring, develops into a small rosette of leaves. These basal leaves give rise to a stem that elongates and produces compound leaves with lobed leaflets. By early to mid-summer, the plant reaches maturity and produces a spike of hooded, bluish-purple flowers that are pollinated by insects, primarily bees. Following pollination, the flowers give way to follicles containing numerous small seeds that, when mature, are dispersed by wind or gravity. In autumn, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, while the underground tuberous roots survive through winter. The plant remains dormant through the cold months, resuming growth from these roots when conditions become favorable in the spring, thereby completing the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Aconitum lycoctonum subsp. neapolitanum, commonly known as the Neapolitan monkshood, is typically propagated through division. This is the most popular method for this species. The best time to propagate Neapolitan monkshood through division is in early spring, just as the plants begin to emerge from dormancy. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the ground, and using a sharp spade or knife, divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least a couple of good growth points or shoots. These divisions can then be immediately replanted into well-prepared soil, spaced approximately 18 inches (around 45 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth space. After planting, water the divisions thoroughly to help establish the new plants.
