Western Monkshood
Aconitum columbianum
(also known as Colombian monkshood, Aconite, Wolfbane)
zones 3-7
40 seeds
This species of monkshood is the only one found in the Northwest. It is often mistaken for the more common Delphinium or Larkspur, but can be clearly differentiated by its “hooded” sepal that conceals the flowers true petals. It can be found flowering in moist soils at higher elevations in midsummer. The large flowers are typically a deep purple, but plants are known to throw mixed color or white forms on occasion. Plants are tall and slender with stems ranging from 3-5 feet. Blooms line the top of the stems, and leaves line the bottom.
All parts of this plant are highly poisonous!
Western Monkshood requires moist, rich soil and light shade. Aconitum seeds require cold stratification. We recommend direct sowing in the fall on the surface of the soil, and marking the area clearly. If starting seeds in early spring, moisten seed starting mix in seedling trays and sprinkle the seeds on the surface of the soil. Cover the trays or place them in a bag (to retain moisture) and refrigerate for a minimum of 6 weeks. When removed, place the trays indoors under bright lights. Transplant seedlings to individual pots after 8 weeks, and then outdoors when the weather permits. If starting indoors, provide bright light and a warm soil temperature.
Aconitum columbianum
(also known as Colombian monkshood, Aconite, Wolfbane)
zones 3-7
40 seeds
This species of monkshood is the only one found in the Northwest. It is often mistaken for the more common Delphinium or Larkspur, but can be clearly differentiated by its “hooded” sepal that conceals the flowers true petals. It can be found flowering in moist soils at higher elevations in midsummer. The large flowers are typically a deep purple, but plants are known to throw mixed color or white forms on occasion. Plants are tall and slender with stems ranging from 3-5 feet. Blooms line the top of the stems, and leaves line the bottom.
All parts of this plant are highly poisonous!
Western Monkshood requires moist, rich soil and light shade. Aconitum seeds require cold stratification. We recommend direct sowing in the fall on the surface of the soil, and marking the area clearly. If starting seeds in early spring, moisten seed starting mix in seedling trays and sprinkle the seeds on the surface of the soil. Cover the trays or place them in a bag (to retain moisture) and refrigerate for a minimum of 6 weeks. When removed, place the trays indoors under bright lights. Transplant seedlings to individual pots after 8 weeks, and then outdoors when the weather permits. If starting indoors, provide bright light and a warm soil temperature.
Aconitum columbianum
(also known as Colombian monkshood, Aconite, Wolfbane)
zones 3-7
40 seeds
This species of monkshood is the only one found in the Northwest. It is often mistaken for the more common Delphinium or Larkspur, but can be clearly differentiated by its “hooded” sepal that conceals the flowers true petals. It can be found flowering in moist soils at higher elevations in midsummer. The large flowers are typically a deep purple, but plants are known to throw mixed color or white forms on occasion. Plants are tall and slender with stems ranging from 3-5 feet. Blooms line the top of the stems, and leaves line the bottom.
All parts of this plant are highly poisonous!
Western Monkshood requires moist, rich soil and light shade. Aconitum seeds require cold stratification. We recommend direct sowing in the fall on the surface of the soil, and marking the area clearly. If starting seeds in early spring, moisten seed starting mix in seedling trays and sprinkle the seeds on the surface of the soil. Cover the trays or place them in a bag (to retain moisture) and refrigerate for a minimum of 6 weeks. When removed, place the trays indoors under bright lights. Transplant seedlings to individual pots after 8 weeks, and then outdoors when the weather permits. If starting indoors, provide bright light and a warm soil temperature.