Perennials: Aconitum arendsii

description for "Perennials: Aconitum arendsii"

Monkshood give a wonderful autumnal show. Combines well with later varieties of pink physostegia and Climicifuga 'White Pearl.' Staking is usually not necessary. A very old garden plant, with some species in use by the year 1200. We like to mulch them in our garden so that the moisture is fairly constant. Keep aconitum well-fertilized; they are especially fond of phosphorous and potash. Although most of these Eurasian plants are fairly tall, height and bloom time vary considerably. The foliage is deep green on all species. On some it is more finely cut than others. Even though most of these are fairly late to flower, the foliage emerges very early and is always a welcome sight. Aconitum cuts well, but is poisonous in all its parts, so use caution.