Moderate to grow

monkshood

Aconitum napellus

Overview

Monkshood (Aconitum napellus) is a stunning plant species known for its deep blue flowers and majestic stature. It is an impressive sight that is sure to capture attention in any garden. The flowers have an unmistakable shape and pattern which is often compared to a hooded monk. This species has a high tolerance to most soils and is surprisingly hardy even in cold climates. It also makes a great addition to any garden, providing height and a unique presence. Monkshood is very easy to maintain and will thrive with regular pruning. Once established, this species will flower year after year and bring joy to any garden.

Care Guide

💧

Watering

Monkshood should be watered moderately throughout its growing season. Water your monkshood plants deeply once a week, allowing the soil to become slightly dry between waterings. Give Monkshood a deep watering that saturates the entire root zone and that thoroughly moistens the soil to a depth of several inches. Monkshood is a fairly drought tolerant species, however, during the hottest weeks of summer, it is best to water the monkshood plants more frequently to help resist wilting.

☀️

Light

Monkshood (Aconitum napellus) is typically best grown in partial shade, so it should be given 2-4 hours of sunlight per day. Monkshood should not be exposed to the hottest, brightest hours of the day, which are typically midday, as this could potentially damage the leaves. For best results, monkshood should be provided with morning or late afternoon sunlight.

🪴

Soil

Well-drained

🌡️

Temperature

Hardiness zone 3–7.

✂️

Pruning

Monkshood (Aconitum napellus) should be pruned to keep plants in a compact shape and size. Pruning should be done in the spring, with plants cut back to just above the ground after flowering is finished. You should remove any damaged, dead, or crossing branches, taking care to leave enough healthy green shoots so that no more than 1/3 of the total plant is removed at any time.

🔬

Propagation

Seed Propagation

Diseases & Pests

Common pests: Mildew, Pest resistant, Disease resistant, Deer resistant, Rabbit resistant .

← Back to Encyclopedia

Other plants you might like if you grow monkshood.

Browse all →