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Description
Aconitum Lycoctonum, also known as northern wolfsbane or yellow monkshood, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia, and can be found growing in meadows, woodlands, and rocky slopes. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and blooms in mid to late summer, producing clusters of yellow flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aconitum |
Appearance
Aconitum Lycoctonum has dark green, lobed leaves that are deeply divided. The leaves can grow up to 20 centimeters long and are arranged alternately along the stem. The plant produces tall, erect stems that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The yellow flowers are shaped like a helmet and bloom in clusters on the top of the stem. The plant blooms in mid to late summer and can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Aconitum Lycoctonum prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring, but should be done sparingly. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aconitum Lycoctonum can be susceptible to slugs, snails, and aphids. Powdery mildew and crown rot can also be a problem, especially in humid conditions. To prevent pests and diseases, it is important to maintain good soil drainage and air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Aconitum Lycoctonum is native to Europe and Asia, and can be found growing in meadows, woodlands, and rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aconitum Lycoctonum poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
Q: Can Aconitum Lycoctonum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Can Aconitum Lycoctonum be propagated by seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by seed in the spring or fall. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained soil and kept moist until they germinate.
Q: How often should Aconitum Lycoctonum be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized sparingly in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Aconitum Napellus
- Aconitum Fischeri
- Aconitum Carmichaelii
- Aconitum Hemsleyanum
References
- “Aconitum lycoctonum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b270.
- “Aconitum lycoctonum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/548/aconitum-lycoctonum/details.
- “Aconitum lycoctonum.” Plants For A Future. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Aconitum+lycoctonum.
