Overview
Aconitum lycoctonum is a plant with a clump forming habit in the genus Aconitum, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Aconitum lycoctonum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, architectural, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Aconitum lycoctonum is a species of flowering plant in the genus Aconitum, of the family Ranunculaceae, native to much of Europe and northern Asia. It is found in lowlands to the subalpine zone, mainly in forests and shaded habitats.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Aconitum lycoctonum
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
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Aconitum lycoctonum size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Architectural, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Aconitum lycoctonum
- Propagation
- Division every third year in autumn or late winter
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to aphids
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to fungal stem rot and verticillium wilt
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Aconitum lycoctonum?
Aconitum lycoctonum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Aconitum lycoctonum need?
Aconitum lycoctonum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Aconitum lycoctonum hardy in the UK?
Aconitum lycoctonum has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Aconitum lycoctonum?
Division every third year in autumn or late winter.