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Description
Aconitum Columbianum, commonly known as Columbia Monkshood, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the western regions of North America, specifically from British Columbia to California, and can be found growing in moist meadows, streambanks, and subalpine slopes. This plant has a tall and slender stem that can reach up to 2 meters in height. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a dark green color. The flowers are blue-violet and have a helmet-shaped appearance. Aconitum Columbianum blooms from July to September.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
---|---|
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Tracheophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Ranunculales |
Family | Ranunculaceae |
Genus | Aconitum |
Appearance
Aconitum Columbianum has a tall and slender stem that can reach up to 2 meters in height. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a dark green color. The flowers are blue-violet and have a helmet-shaped appearance. The blooms are numerous and form a dense spike at the top of the stem. The petals of the flowers are arranged in a way that they resemble a hood. The roots of Aconitum Columbianum are tuberous and are used in traditional medicine.
Care Guide
Aconitum Columbianum thrives in moist and well-draining soil. It prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. It is best to plant this species in the fall or early spring. Watering should be done regularly to maintain moist soil conditions. Fertilization can be done once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Aconitum Columbianum is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aconitum Columbianum is susceptible to root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. It can also be affected by spider mites and aphids. Proper care, including proper watering and fertilization, can help prevent these pests and diseases from affecting the plant.
Habitat
Aconitum Columbianum is native to the western regions of North America, specifically from British Columbia to California. It can be found growing in moist meadows, streambanks, and subalpine slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aconitum Columbianum toxic?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
Q: Can Aconitum Columbianum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with adequate moisture and nutrients.
Q: How often should Aconitum Columbianum be fertilized?
A: Fertilization can be done once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Aconitum Columbianum?
A: It is best to plant this species in the fall or early spring.
Related Plants
- Aconitum napellus
- Aconitum carmichaelii
- Aconitum fischeri
- Aconitum lycoctonum
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/aconitum_columbianum.shtml
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/aconitum-columbianum-columbia-monkshood
- https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/perennials/how-to-grow-and-care-for-monkshood