Monkshood Aconitum napellus subsp. vulgare 'Albidum'
ABOUT
Aconitum napellus subsp. vulgare 'Albidum', commonly known as white monkshood, is a striking perennial with a robust and upright habit. This plant is characterized by its distinctive flowers which are shaped like a helmet or hood, earning it its common nickname. The blossoms are a creamy white color, providing an elegant look in garden settings. The foliage of white monkshood is dark green, divided into deeply-cut lobes, which have a palmate, or hand-like appearance. The leaves are arranged spirally along the stems, providing a lush backdrop for the prominent floral spikes that rise above them. While much of the plant's allure comes from its blooms and foliage, it also possesses a sturdy and rigid stem structure that holds the flowers aloft, making them an attractive feature in the landscape. Please note, however, that all parts of the white monkshood plant are highly toxic if ingested, requiring careful handling and placement away from areas accessed by pets and children.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
White Monkshood, Garden Monkshood, White Wolfsbane
Common names
Aconitum napellus subsp. vulgare 'Albidum'
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3 feet (91 cm)
Spread
2 feet (61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Aconitum napellus subsp. vulgare 'Albidum', commonly known as Monkshood, adds visual interest to gardens with its tall spikes of hood-shaped flowers, which are typically in shades of white.
- Attracts Pollinators: Monkshood's flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, thus supporting local ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: The plant is known to be resistant to deer and rabbits, which can be particularly useful in areas where wildlife browsing is an issue for gardeners.
- Cold-Hardiness: Monkshood is suitable for cold climates, as it is able to withstand low temperatures and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 7.
- Tolerates Shade: This plant has the ability to grow in part shade, making it a versatile addition to gardens with varying light conditions.
- Height for Back Borders: The taller varieties of Monkshood can provide height and structure to the back of garden borders or flower beds.
- Late-Season Blooms: It flowers in the late summer to early fall, providing color and interest in the garden during a time when many other flowers may be fading.
- Pest Resistant: Monkshood is generally resistant to most pests, reducing the need for chemical pest controls in the garden.
Medical Properties- Analgesic: Aconitum napellus, also known as monkshood, has historically been used for its pain-relieving properties.
- Anti-inflammatory: It may contain compounds that reduce inflammation, though this use is also steep with potential danger.
- Anxiolytic: There are references to its use in reducing anxiety, but due to its toxic nature, this is not widely practiced or recommended.
- Febrifuge: Monkshood has been used to reduce fever in historical medical practices.
- Neuralgia treatment: The plant has been applied historically for the treatment of nerve pain, yet it poses serious health risks.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aconite, the common name for Aconitum napellus subsp. vulgare 'Albidum', has been historically used as a potent animal poison for hunting large game, particularly wolves, which is where the name "wolfsbane" originates from.
- The plant's roots have been used in traditional pest control to protect crops from rodents and pests due to its toxic properties.
- In certain cultures, aconite was believed to protect against evil spirits or spells; it was planted near homes for its supposed supernatural protective benefits.
- The bright flowers of aconite can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, lending a blue or yellow hue, depending on the part of the plant used.
- Despite its toxicity, aconite has been used in very small quantities as a flavor enhancer in some traditional spirits and tinctures, although this practice is not common due to its risks.
- The plant has been employed in the past in ceremonies and rituals, symbolizing caution and danger due to its poisonous nature.
- Enthusiasts of historical reenactment might use aconite to recreate ancient poisons or potions, adhering to detailed historical records of its use.
- Aconite's toxicity has played a role in literature and theater as a classical poison, influencing plot devices in mystery and crime genres.
- In some areas, aconite has been used to bait areas for photographic traps, capturing images of wildlife while discouraging the animals from returning due to its unpleasant taste.
- Gardeners may use aconite for educational purposes, as a demonstration of plant toxicity and the importance of understanding the plants in one's garden.
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 and Danger: Aconitum, commonly known as monkshood or wolfsbane, is highly toxic, and its symbolism often includes warning against harm and potential danger. It serves as a reminder to be cautious and alert to potential risks.
- Protection: Historically, monkshood was thought to protect against evil spirits and werewolves, therefore it also symbolizes protection from harm and supernatural threats.
- Deception: Due to its beautiful but deadly nature, monkshood can symbolize deceit and hidden intentions, signifying that things might not always be as they appear.
- Witchcraft: Monkshood is associated with witchcraft and magic, due to its use in potions and spells in folklore. It represents the mystical and the arcane.
WaterMonkshood requires regular watering to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during its growing season in spring and early summer. The plant should be watered deeply about once or twice a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly before the next watering. An approximate amount would be around 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant every week, depending on the local weather conditions and soil type; sandy soils dry out faster than clay ones. During hot or dry spells, you may need to increase the frequency, but avoid waterlogging as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy.
LightMonkshood thrives in a spot with partial shade to dappled sunlight, avoiding the intense heat of the midday sun. Morning sunlight with afternoon shade provides an ideal balance and helps maintain vibrant foliage and healthy blooms. Areas beneath high, open trees that filter the sunlight or northern exposures are often suitable. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too much shade can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
TemperatureMonkshood performs well in a range of temperatures typical of temperate climates. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around -20 to -30 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant grows best in cool to moderate temperatures, with an ideal range being between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to protect it from extreme heat, as temperatures consistently above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can cause stress to the plant.
PruningPruning Monkshood involves cutting back the spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage a tidy appearance and potentially a second flush of flowers. The best time to prune is late summer or early fall, after the primary flowering period. Additionally, remove any damaged or diseased foliage as needed to maintain plant health. Pruning is typically done annually, and deadheading spent flowers can be done throughout the blooming season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMonkshood (Aconitum napellus 'Albidum') prefers well-draining, moist soil, enriched with organic matter. A mixture of loam, leaf mold, or compost with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is best for optimal growth and flowering.
RepottingMonkshood does not need frequent repotting; it can be done every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Humidity & MistingMonkshood tolerates average humidity levels but thrives with a bit of extra humidity, especially during dry periods. Aim for around 50-60% relative humidity for optimal conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light; keep soil moist but not wet.
Outdoor
Plant in part-shade; keep soil moist and well-drained.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleAconitum napellus subsp. vulgare 'Albidum', commonly known as the white monkshood, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in moist, well-draining soil in the spring. After sprouting, the seedling grows into a vegetative plant with distinctive deeply lobed leaves and a sturdy stem, during which it develops a robust root system. In the flowering stage, typically in late summer to early fall, it produces tall spires of hood-shaped white flowers that attract pollinators such as bees. After pollination, the flowers develop into follicles containing seeds that mature and are eventually dispersed by wind or wildlife. The plant goes dormant in winter, retreating to its tuberous root system to survive the cold. In the following spring, the cycle begins anew as the plant emerges from dormancy to produce new growth and continue its life process.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Monkshood (Aconitum napellus subsp. vulgare 'Albidum') is through seed sowing. Seeds can be sown in the fall directly into a nursery bed or into pots. To increase the chance of germination, it is beneficial to stratify the seeds for a period of 3 to 4 weeks at a temperature between 33-40 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 0.5-4.5 degrees Celsius). This process mimics the natural cold period that seeds would encounter in the ground over winter, breaking the seed dormancy. In late winter or early spring, as temperatures rise, the seeds will then typically germinate. Care should be taken when handling seeds or any part of the plant, as it is highly toxic. Seedlings usually flower in the second or third year after sowing, as Monkshood is a perennial.
