Pasqueflower : a perennial shrub

Aconite, also called monkshood (Latin: Aconitum), is a perennial shrub in the buttercup family. It’s also known as pasqueflower, safflower, and Eisenhut.

The plant grows widely across the Northern Hemisphere and has around 300 species. In the wild, aconite appears in moist areas like riverbanks, roadsides, mountain meadows, and soils rich in organic matter.

Stories say aconite sprung up where the hellhound Cerberus died. In Scandinavian myths, it appeared where the god Thor fell. Historically, people used it to make poisons, hunt with it, and for medicine. All parts of the plant are toxic because they contain alkaloids like aconitine and songorine. These compounds can cause paralysis by affecting the nervous system.

Aconitum napellus is a strong, compact shrub that can grow between 50 and 200 centimeters tall. It has upright stems and leaves that are shaped like a palm or deeply divided. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stems. The flowers are shaped like helmets and grow at the top of the plant in clusters. They are white and about 3 centimeters across. Its roots are thick and tuberous. The plant produces dry, multi-seeded fruits with 3 to 7 leaflets.

Aconite blooms for a long period, starting in summer and lasting until mid-autumn. It grows quickly and remains in flower for many weeks. Because of its attractive look, it is popular in garden design. It can be planted alone or with other plants like delphiniums, rudbeckia, astilbe, and daylilies. It is also good for cutting flowers.

The plant prefers semi-shady or shady spots and grows well under trees. It needs soil that is neither too rich nor too poor, and moist but not waterlogged. Overdrying harms it. The soil should have a neutral pH. When planting, keep at least 70 centimeters between each plant. Loose, well-drained soil helps it grow best.

Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. In spring, before it flowers, feed it with organic and mineral fertilizers. Keep the soil free of weeds and loosen it often. Aconite does not need winter cover and does not have to be dug up. It can tolerate cold temperatures down to minus 34 degrees Celsius and is hardy in zone 4.

You can grow aconite from seeds or by dividing the plant, tubers, or cuttings. Seeds need cold treatment first. Divide the plant every four years. Sow cuttings in spring, and plant tubers in fall.

Though beautiful, aconite is very poisonous. Handle it carefully to avoid accidents. Its good looks and long flowering time make it popular in garden design. Growing it requires attention to soil, light, and moisture needs and safety precautions.

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