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southern blue monkshood

Scientific Name: Aconitum uncinatum ssp. uncinatum

Family: Ranunculaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Aconitum uncinatum: Southern Blue Monkshood

Aconitum uncinatum, commonly known as Southern Blue Monkshood, is a perennial forb/herb belonging to the Ranunculaceae (buttercup) family.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text indicates that the whole plant is highly toxic.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Aconitum uncinatum L.
  • Common Names: Southern Blue Monkshood, Wild Monkshood
  • Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family)
  • Synonyms: The plant is also known as aconite, monkshood, wolf's bane, leopard's bane, mousebane, women's bane, Devil's helmet, or blue rocket.
  • Subspecies: Aconitum uncinatum L. ssp. uncinatum, and A. u. muticum are mentioned.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Southern Blue Monkshood is native or naturalized throughout the US and Canada.
  • It is uncommon in mountains and piedmont areas and rare on the coast. Specific mention is made of Union Co., Georgia.
  • It thrives in moist woods, clearings, cove forests, and rich woods and seepages.
  • It is considered endangered in Maryland and threatened in much of its native range.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Height: Typically grows to a height of 2-5 feet.
  • Color: It has blue, purple, or violet flowers. A white-flowered species is also mentioned.
  • Growth Habit: Develops like a shrub with a climber development.

Ecological Role

  • The Southern Blue Monkshood is endangered or threatened in much of its native range, making it a conservation concern.

Cultivation

  • Requires regular watering but should be kept dry as autumn approaches.
  • Soil should be enriched with organic or slow-release fertilizer before planting.

Further Information

  • Discover Life provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Aconitum uncinatum.
  • Dave's Garden offers gardening tips and ideas.