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Ranunculaceae
Monkshood
Aconitum napellus
Danger and treachery.
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Genus
- Aconitum
- Native to
- Western Europe, Central Europe
- Bloom season
- Summer
- Type
- perennial herb
- Height
- 2-4 ft
- Sunlight
- part shade
- Soil
- Rich, moist soil
- Water
- moderate
- Hardiness
- 3-7
- Lifespan
- perennial
Did you know
- Monkshood is sometimes called 'Queen of Poisons' as it was historically one of the most commonly used plants for poisonings.
- In Greek mythology, the plant sprang from the drool of Cerberus, the three-headed dog guarding the underworld.
- Medieval Europeans planted it near doorways believing it could ward off werewolves and evil spirits.
- The flower shape perfectly mimics a monk's cowl or hood, giving rise to its common name across multiple languages.
- Despite its extreme toxicity, it has been used in homeopathic medicine in extremely diluted preparations since the 18th century.
Color meanings
0
caution
1
chivalry