Contents
Description
Aconitum Carmichaelii, commonly known as Chinese monkshood or Carmichael’s monkshood, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world.This plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a clump-forming habit. It has deeply divided, dark green leaves that are 3-lobed and toothed. The flowers are hooded and arranged in dense, erect, terminal racemes. The blooms are typically blue, but they can also be white, pink, or purple. The flowering period of Aconitum Carmichaelii is from late summer to early autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aconitum |
Appearance
Aconitum Carmichaelii is an attractive plant that adds a pop of color to any garden. The leaves are deeply divided and dark green, making them stand out against other plants. The hooded flowers are the real showstoppers, with their vibrant blue, white, pink, or purple hues. They are arranged in dense, erect, terminal racemes that can reach up to 2 feet long.
Care Guide
Aconitum Carmichaelii requires some care to thrive, but it is not overly demanding. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Aconitum Carmichaelii prefers well-draining soil that does not retain too much water.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring before the blooming season begins.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH is ideal.- Sunlight: Aconitum Carmichaelii grows best in partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, it prefers some afternoon shade to protect it from the intense sun.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aconitum Carmichaelii is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still fall victim to some common problems. Here are some issues to look out for:- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug bait or handpick them off the plant.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can affect the leaves and stems of the plant. Provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent it.- Crown rot: This disease can occur in waterlogged soil and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Aconitum Carmichaelii is native to China, Korea, and Japan and can be found growing in meadows, forest edges, and by streams. It prefers cool temperatures and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aconitum Carmichaelii poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested. Handle with care and keep away from children and pets.
Q: Can Aconitum Carmichaelii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its size and growth habit.
Q: How often should I fertilize Aconitum Carmichaelii?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once in the spring before the blooming season begins.
Q: Does Aconitum Carmichaelii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of this plant attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Related Plants
– Aconitum napellus- Aconitum ferox- Aconitum japonicum- Aconitum heterophyllum
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Aconitum Carmichaelii. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285975&isprofile=0&- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Aconitum Carmichaelii. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/29647/Aconitum-Carmichaelii/Details
