Azure Monkshood Aconitum fischeri

Unavailable in 2024

Monkshood sends up striking, upright spikes of violet-blue flowers from mid- to late-summer when few other blue flowers are in bloom. Each individual flower measures 1-2 in. long and is shaped like a little helmet or hood, thus the common name Monkshood. Excellent cut flower. Aconitum prefers to be grown in partial shade but will tolerate full sun if plenty of moisture is available. Dry soil leads to stunting. The soil should also be amended with generous amounts of compost and peat moss to give it a slight acidity. They are slow to increase and won’t need to be divided often. However, plants may be divided in spring or fall.

Aconitums are highly resistant to diseases and pests, partially because they are very poisonous. USE CAUTION when handling this plant and wear gloves. Do not plant it near vegetable gardens or where small children play. Ingestion of any part of the plant may prove fatal.