Acidic / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy
Aconitum napellus – also known as monkshood, wolfsbane and aconite – is plant steeped in lore because of the toxin, aconitine, it contains. It's a beautiful herbaceous perennial with finely divided leaves similar to those of delphiniums, to which it's related. It bears deep purple-blue flowers held on spires a metre or so in height and enjoys growing in cool, moist soil. It usually flowers in June and July.
For best results, grow Aconitum napellus in full sun or partial shade, in moist, well-drained soil. Light soils should be improved with lots of well-rotted organic matter before planting. Find out more in our grow guide for Aconitum.
Explore Aconitum napellus 'Newry blue', which has deep, indigo coloured flowers held closely together to form a denser spire than the uncultivated species.
Advertisement
Plant calendar
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sow
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
Plant
yes
yes
yes
Flowers
yes
yes
Divide
yes
yes
yes
Aconitum ‘Napellus’ and wildlife
Aconitum ‘Napellus’ is known for attracting bees. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.
Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is not known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Butterflies/Moths
Butterflies/Moths
Is not known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators
Is Aconitum ‘Napellus’ poisonous?
Aconitum ‘Napellus’ causes an upset stomach, irritates skin, is harmful if ingested and toxins are absorbed by the skin. Its foliage, fruit, pollen, roots, sap, seed capsules and seeds are toxic.
