Alaskan Monkshood

Royal blue flowers open on slender stems above lush green foliage. Each hooded bloom is 2-5cm long. Good late season colour to bridge the summer to autumn gap. Alaskan Monkshood is a rare find.

The flowers of Alaskan Monkshood are actually the sepals, the petals are hidden beneath the 'hood' as nectaries.

The leaves are mid to bright green and lush and form neat clumps. The botanical name Aconitum delphinifolium refers to the leaf shape; 'delphinifolium' meaning leaves like a Delphinium. The term Aconitum may be from the Greek; akontion for arrow. It was thought to be used to poison arrows in ancient times. The poison was used on harpoons to immobilize whales.

Aconitum are woodland plants and grow well in morning sun to bright light positions. They will tolerate full sun but will need to be kept watered. Ideally plant Alaskan Monkshood in humus rich, moist, well drained soil. Water to establish and keep moist in active growth.

Alaskan Monkshood make good cut flowers. As the common name suggests, it is native to grassland of Alaska and the Rocky Mountains.

Supplied as: Bare rooted