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monkshood
Scientific Name: Aconitum
Family: Ranunculaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Monkshood: A Mysterious and Potent Perennial
Monkshood, scientifically known as Aconitum, is a captivating yet infamous plant recognized by a variety of common names reflecting its distinctive appearance and toxic properties. These include aconite, wolf's bane, leopard's bane, mousebane, women's bane, devil's helmet, Queen of all Poisons, helmet flower, and friar's helmet.
Considerations for Pets
- All parts of the Aconitum plant are considered highly poisonous.
- The text mentions that even handling the plant has resulted in adverse reactions.
Considerations for Children
- All parts of the Aconitum plant are considered highly poisonous.
- The plant possesses a distinctive and unpleasant taste, which may deter ingestion, but caution is still advised.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Aconitum (with specific species mentioned, such as Aconitum napellus, Aconitum carmichaelii, and Aconitum columbianum)
- Common Names: Aconite, Monkshood, Wolf's Bane, Leopard's Bane, Mousebane, Women's Bane, Devil's Helmet, Queen of all Poisons, Helmet Flower, Friar's Helmet, Common Monk's Hood, Wolf's-bane, Fuzi, Monk's Blood, Venus' Chariot, Blue Rocket, and Azure Monkshood.
- Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup Family)
- Taxonomic Rank: Mentions subspecies (e.g., Aconitum columbianum subspecies columbianum)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Southern England and Europe. Also found in mountain meadows and on mountain slopes in Europe and east to the Himalayas.
- Cultivated in gardens since before 1600.
- Rare in the wild, but found in certain regions.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Herbaceous perennial wildflower.
- Erect and sturdy stems.
- Distinctive hood-like sepal, giving it the name "Monkshood."
- Flowers resemble delphiniums.
- Flowers are typically bluish-violet, deep blue, or light blue and form tall spikes of hooded florets.
- Height: Ranges from 120-180 cm (approximately 4-6 feet)
- Flowering Period: Varies, but often May-June or July-August. Autumn flowering is also mentioned.
- In leaf from February to October.
- Stems rarely need staking.
Ecological Role
- Aconitum is noted as a "threatened species" in at least one location, highlighting conservation concerns in specific areas.
- Its presence in gardens is well-established, but its potential impact on surrounding ecosystems is not detailed in this text.
Historical and Traditional Uses
- One of the first perennials grown as a garden ornamental.
- Component in flying ointments of the Middle Ages.
- Used to consecrate ritual objects.
- Used by ancient warriors to poison water.
Quirky Facts
- The common name "Monkshood" comes from the hood-like shape of the sepal, resembling a monk's cowl.
- Some species were used to poison the water supplies of enemies in ancient times.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Grows in a hawthorn bush
- Mention of a spider's association with monkshood, although the specific connection is not elaborated upon.
Further Information
- RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) is mentioned as a source of information on Aconitum napellus.
- American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language is referenced for a definition.