Aconitum carmichaelii Arendsii (Monkshood)

Blooming later than most Aconitum species, award-winning Aconitum carmichaelii ‘Arendsii'(Monkshood) is an erect, tuberous perennial with dense spires of rich azure-blue flowers in early to mid-fall.

Blooming later than most Aconitum species, award-winning Aconitum carmichaelii 'Arendsii'(Monkshood) is an erect, tuberous perennial with dense spires of rich azure-blue flowers in early to mid-fall. Its hooded flowers resemble the hood worn by medieval monks, hence the common name of monkshood. They are borne atop thick, rigid stems clad with handsome foliage of deeply divided, leathery, dark green leaves. This fall-flowering makes outstanding cut flowers and is perfect for wet soils.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
  • Grows up to 2-4 ft high (60-120 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm). Plants may grow up to 5 ft. high (150 cm) in optimum growing conditions and may require staking.
  • Thrives in full sun or part shade and in moist, organically rich, and well-drained soils. Best in full sun in cool summer climates. Do not let soils dry out.
  • Deer and rabbit resistant
  • Cut back plants after flowering to promote re-bloom later in the season.
  • Divide every third year in fall or late winter to maintain vigor, although plants can be slow to re-establish. May be grown from seed.
  • All parts are highly toxic if eaten, all parts may be harmful through skin contact. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Avoid planting in areas where small children might come in contact with it.
  • Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses, toxic to humans.
  • Native to central China

Requirements

Hardiness 3
– 8

Heat Zones 3
– 8

Climate Zones 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, A1, A2, A3
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Aconitum – Monkshoods
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Fall
Height 2'
– 5'
(60cm
– 150cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 24″ (60cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Average
Soil Type Clay, Loam
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Garden Uses Beds and Borders
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden