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Photo by Rüdiger Kratz

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Aconitum napellus

Also Known As

Friar's Cap
Helmet Flower
Monkshood
Wolf's Bane

Plant type

perennial

size

H: 2'-4'
W: 1'-2'

planting zones

3a-9b

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Aconitum napellus plant details

Aconitum napellus is a broadleaf deciduous perennial with green foliage. In fall and summer purple flowers emerge. Grows well with sun - dappled shade and even moisture - regular water. Does well in average, rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Aconitum napellus

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: ranunculaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 1 FT - 2 FT - wide, 2 FT - 4 FT - tall
Flowers: purple blooms in fall and summer
Uses: border plant, cottage garden, showy, toxic

GROWING CONDITIONS for Aconitum napellus

USDA Zones: 3a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun - dappled shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular
Resistant to: deer and rabbit
Soil needs: average, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Aconitum napellus has earned a common place in gardens due to its handsome foliage, erect stems and tall spike of deep blue to purplish flowers. Full sun to part shade. All parts of the plant are poisonous so don't use it in salads. Monkshoods are great from sun to part shade and offer a great way to get vertical spikes into shadier positions.

By: Phoenix Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.

A clump forming, winter dormant perennial. Tall (1m), erect, leafy stems produce in late Summer, dense racemes, of hooded, 5cm, indigo blue flowers. From a distance the plant appears somewhat Delphinium like. Remove stems after browning off in Winter.This plant is poisonous, do not ingest any part of it.

By: Zephs

Garden photo gallery of Aconitum napellus

Photo of Aconitum napellus flower by Rüdiger Kratz

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By: Rüdiger Kratz

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Photo of Aconitum napellus flower, form by Bernd Haynold

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By: Bernd Haynold

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Photo of Aconitum napellus flower by Axel Mauruszat

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By: Axel Mauruszat

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