They are also called monkshood, mousebane, and leopard’s bane. These herbs are native to the mountains of Europe, Asia and North America. The genus Aconitum has more than 200 species and belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. The scientific name of the Wolf’s-bane plant is Aconitum napellus. This plant belongs to the family Aconitum which includes more than 250 species within it. Once the blooms of monkshood are spent, it is best to remove old blossoms to help encourage a secondary, late-season bloom.įind more ideas for cool climate perennials here. The Wolfsbane flower blooms on the extremely poisonous perennial herb Aconitum. It is said that the combat against the evil existence of werewolves can be won by this mythical plant and its flower commonly known as Wolf’s-bane. But if planted in too much shade, the plants will become floppy and loose in habit and will require support or staking. In areas with a warmer climate, monkshood grows in part shade or areas that receive afternoon shade. For the best growth habit, monkshood should be grown in full sun. Monkshood also benefits from very rich, organic soil in order to put out the lushest growth possible.Īlthough monkshood is usually found in rocky settings, it is perfectly happy living in a woodland setting, too. It is also important that the soil is well-drained to prevent rot in its tuberous roots. One of the most important requirements for growing monkshood is consistently moist soil. If you are growing monkshood be sure to always wear gloves when handling plants and wash your hands thoroughly when finished. While all parts of this plant are extremely toxic and poisonous, the seeds and roots have the highest concentrations of the poison. In areas of Europe and Asia where monkshood is native, indigenous people used it to help hunt animals, either in powdered form or by rubbing sap onto arrows and other hunting tools. Another common name of this plant is wolfsbane, as years ago it was used as a poison in wolf bait. Though it's arguably worth growing for its attractive blooms, monkshood has a reputation that dates all the way back to Greek and Roman mythology for the deadly compounds it produces. See more of our favorite fall garden plants here. Along with the attractive spikes of the blossoms, monkshood's foliage is quite attractive. The name monkshood comes from the modified petals on the flowers that resemble the cowls or hoods worn by monks. Along with the common blue color, you can find monkshood in pink, white, and sometimes even yellow. One of the main reasons to grow this stunning plant is for its deep, rich blue flowers. Plant monkshood in areas away from where children or pets play. In ancient times, wolfsbane was used as a poison for arrowheads when hunting wolves. While monkshood is pretty, its roots and seeds are poisonous. All parts of the wolfsbane, especially the roots, contain toxins. The blossoms are held above attractive dissected foliage that gives the plant an almost fernlike appearance. Similar to its cousin delphinium, monkshood forms beautiful spires of purple or deep-blue flowers.
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