Photo of Aconitum carmichaelii flower by Magnus Manske

Photo by Magnus Manske

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Aconitum carmichaelii

Also Known As

  • Aconitum incisofidum
  • Aconitum wilsonii
  • Monkshood

Plant type

perennial

size

  • H: 2'-6'
  • W: 1'-3'

planting zones

  • 3b-9b

More Options

Aconitum carmichaelii plant details

Aconitum carmichaelii is a broadleaf deciduous perennial with green foliage. In fall and summer blue and purple flowers emerge. Grows well with sun - dappled shade and even moisture - regular water. Does well in average, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and humidity tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Aconitum carmichaelii

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: ranunculaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 1 FT - 3 FT - wide, 2 FT - 6 FT - tall
Flowers: blue and purple blooms in fall and summer
Uses: border plant, cottage garden, cut leaves, cutting garden, floriferous, toxic, woodland garden

GROWING CONDITIONS for Aconitum carmichaelii

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

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

It's been years since we've offered Monkshood but lately we have had more requests. This species blooms in late summer into early autumn, with violet blue "hooded" blossoms on 3-4' stems. Yes this plant is toxic, and care should be taken to prevent young children or willy-nilly pets to ingest (but yes , it is deer and rabbit resistant). A member of the Buttercup family, Aconitum like evenly most soil with good drainage, and we find they prefer the coolness of partial shade in hot summer climates.
Perhaps the finest of the Aconites, this imposing species is always in demand; the soaring spires of hooded blue flowers tower over the Tricyrtis and Cyclamen mocking the pathetic attempts of Mums trying in vain capture you eye.
Gorgeous autumn blooms are only one reason to add this plant to your garden wish list! Dark green leaves contrast sharply with huge panicles of intense, dark violet-blue flowers on this specimen.

By: Greer Gardens Inc.

Sturdy stemed monkshood with purple flowers.

Gardening facts about Aconitum carmichaelii plant

How to Grow Aconitum carmichaelii

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - dappled shade
  • Water Needs

    • even moisture - regular
  • Special Situation

    • heat tolerant
    • humidity tolerant
  • Soil Needs

    • average
    • well-drained
    • rich

Features

  • Flower Color

    • blue
    • purple
  • Wildlife

    • deer resistant
    • rabbit resistant
  • Flower Season

    • summer
    • fall
  • Foliage Season

    • deciduous
  • Foliage Color

    • green
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