Overview

Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety' is a clump forming perennial in the genus Aconitum, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates moist and well-drained soils and neutral and acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and cut flowers. It is native to China.

About

Aconitum henryi is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family known by the common name Sparks variety monkshood.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Aconitum henryi

About the genus

Aconitum, also known as aconite, monkshood, wolfsbane, devil's helmet, or blue rocket, is a genus of over 250 species of flowering plants belonging to the family Ranunculaceae. These herbaceous, frequently toxic perennial plants are chiefly native to the mountainous parts of the Northern Hemisphere in North America, Europe, and Asia, growing in the moisture-retentive but well-draining soils of mountain meadows.

Wikipedia contributors, "Aconitum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Aconitum

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Aconitum

Sunlight
full sun, partial shade
Soil type
moist, well-drained
Soil pH
neutral, acidic
Soil moisture
moist
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
borders, cut flowers
Native to
China
Toxicity
Highly toxic

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety'

Cultivation
Prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Pruning
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
Propagation
Propagation by seed or division in spring.
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Fungal stem rot, Powdery mildews, Verticillium wilt

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety'?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

Where is the best place to plant Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety'?

Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety' need?

Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety' grows best in moist and well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety'?

Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.

Is Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety' hardy in the UK?

Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety'?

Propagation by seed or division in spring.

Is Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety' toxic?

Highly toxic.

From the Fenn Plants journal