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Description
Aconitum noveboracense, commonly known as Northern Blue Monkshood, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. It belongs to the family Ranunculaceae and is a close relative of the more commonly known Aconitum napellus, or the Monkshood plant.The plant can grow up to 5 feet tall, with dark green leaves and striking blue flowers. The blooms are shaped like a hood or helmet, hence the name “Monkshood”. They appear in the late summer or early fall and can last for several weeks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota||————-|————–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Angiosperms|| Class| Eudicots|| Order| Ranunculales || Family| Ranunculaceae|| Genus| Aconitum|| Species| A. noveboracense |
Appearance
The Northern Blue Monkshood plant has dark green, glossy leaves that are deeply lobed and palmate. The stems are tall and erect, and can grow up to 5 feet in height. The flowers are strikingly beautiful and are blue in color. They are shaped like a hood or helmet, with a long spur at the back. The blooms can last for several weeks, and the plant can continue to produce flowers for several years.
Care Guide
Northern Blue Monkshood requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil, with a pH of around 6.5. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as the plant does not tolerate standing water.The plant requires full to partial sun exposure, and is hardy in USDA zones 3-7. It is important to ensure that the plant is protected from strong winds, as the tall stems can easily be damaged.Fertilization is not required for Northern Blue Monkshood, as the plant is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soil. However, a light application of compost or well-rotted manure can help to improve soil quality and promote healthy growth.
Common Pests and Diseases
Northern Blue Monkshood is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it is important to watch out for slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves and flowers. Powdery mildew and rust can also be a problem, particularly in humid conditions. These can be treated with fungicides, or by removing and destroying affected plant parts.
Habitat
Northern Blue Monkshood is native to North America, where it can be found growing in moist meadows, along streams and in wooded areas. The plant prefers cool, damp conditions and is often found growing in the shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Northern Blue Monkshood poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are highly toxic and should not be ingested.Q: Can Northern Blue Monkshood be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the container is large enough to accommodate the tall stems.Q: Does Northern Blue Monkshood require pruning?
A: No, the plant does not require pruning, but it is important to remove any dead or damaged plant parts to promote healthy growth.Q: Is Northern Blue Monkshood deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant, but it may be attractive to other animals such as rabbits.
Related Plants
– Aconitum napellus (Monkshood)- Aconitum carmichaelii (Carmichael’s Monkshood)- Aconitum fischeri (Fischer’s Monkshood)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Aconitum noveboracense. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c282- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Aconitum noveboracense. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/aconitum-noveboracense/
