Wolfsbane Aconitum lycoctonum

Water

The common name of Aconitum lycoctonum is Wolfsbane, and it prefers evenly moist soil, so it's important to water it regularly. During the growing season, watering should be done to keep the soil consistently damp, but not waterlogged, which typically means providing about 1 inch of water per week. Depending on weather conditions such as heat and wind, the frequency may need to be increased to ensure the soil doesn't dry out. It is best to water Wolfsbane at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During periods of rainfall, reduce supplemental watering accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil moisture at a depth of 1 inch and water if the soil feels dry.

Light

Wolfsbane thrives best in partial shade, with protection from the intense heat of the afternoon sun. Ideal lighting conditions include a spot that enjoys morning sunlight and dappled shade during the peak hours of the day. If the plant is in a region with cooler summers, it may tolerate more sun, but in hotter areas, it will need more shade.

Temperature

Wolfsbane grows optimally in a temperature range from 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it can tolerate short periods of colder weather down to 40 degrees and cope with temperatures up to around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure proper growth and flowering, try to maintain the ideal temperature range, especially during the growing season.

Pruning

Wolfsbane benefits from pruning to remove spent flowers, which encourages a potential second bloom. Pruning also helps maintain plant shape and health by removing any damaged or diseased stems. Best done shortly after the flowering period, pruning can occur in late summer or fall. Do this annually to ensure vigorous growth and ample blooms in the following season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Wolfsbane thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining with a mixture of loam, organic matter, and some sand. The best pH for this soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Wolfsbane does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every two to three years during its dormant period in late fall or early spring.

Humidity & Misting

Wolfsbane prefers moderate humidity but is adaptable to the typical range found in outdoor environments, without the need for specific humidity adjustments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Use well-draining soil, avoid direct sun, keep moist, provide partial shade for Wolfsbane.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, protect from wind, and ensure moist, rich soil for Wolfsbane.

• Hardiness zone

  3-8 USDA

Life cycle

Aconitum lycoctonum, commonly known as wolfsbane, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in late spring when soil temperatures are suitable. The seedling develops into a vegetative plant with deeply divided, dark green leaves on tall stems. During its second or third year, wolfsbane enters its flowering stage in early to mid-summer, producing tall spires of hooded purple, yellow, or white flowers which are pollinated by bumblebees and other insects. After pollination, the flowers develop into follicles containing numerous seeds that ripen by late summer or early autumn. When mature, these seeds are dispersed by wind, water, or animals, enabling the plant to colonize new areas. Wolfsbane is a perennial plant, dying back to its tuberous rootstock in winter, and resprouting the following spring to continue its cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Aconitum lycoctonum, commonly known as wolf's bane or northern wolfsbane, is by division of the plant’s root clumps. This process is typically carried out in the spring or early fall to allow the plants to establish themselves during the cooler temperatures. Gardeners should carefully dig up the established plants and gently separate the root clumps into smaller sections, each with several shoots or eyes. These divisions are then planted immediately at the same depth they were previously growing, and spaced about 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 centimeters) apart to ensure ample growing space. It is important to keep the newly planted divisions well-watered until they establish a new root system and demonstrate new growth.