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Description
Aconitum Coreanum, commonly known as Korean Monkshood, is a stunning herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the family Ranunculaceae. It is native to Korea and Japan and is widely grown for its beautiful, showy blue-purple flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall. However, it is also a highly poisonous plant that should be handled with caution.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aconitum |
Appearance
Aconitum Coreanum can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It has a clump-forming habit and produces deeply lobed, palmate leaves that are up to 8 inches long. The leaves are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. In late summer to early fall, the plant produces tall spikes of showy blue-purple flowers that are shaped like a helmet or hood. The flowers are about 1-2 inches long and have a slightly sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Aconitum Coreanum is a relatively easy plant to grow if given the right conditions. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant prefers evenly moist soil, so water regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once in early spring and again in early summer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Add compost or peat moss to the soil if necessary.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it may require some afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: Aconitum Coreanum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aconitum Coreanum is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, and snails. These can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Aconitum Coreanum is native to Korea and Japan and is commonly found in mountainous regions and along stream banks. It prefers cool, moist climates and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aconitum Coreanum a poisonous plant?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are highly poisonous and can cause severe illness or death if ingested.
Q: Can Aconitum Coreanum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Aconitum Coreanum?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once in early spring and again in early summer.
Q: Can Aconitum Coreanum grow in full sun?
A: Yes, the plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it may require some afternoon shade.
Related Plants
– Aconitum Napellus (Common Monkshood)- Aconitum Fischeri (Fischer’s Monkshood)- Aconitum Hemsleyanum (Chinese Monkshood)- Aconitum Lycoctonum (Yellow Monkshood)
References
– “Aconitum Coreanum – Korean Monkshood.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d276.- “Aconitum Coreanum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/8864/aconitum-coreanum/details.
