Venus' Chariot

Venus' Chariot Care

Aconitum Napellus

Other names: Wolfsbane, Aconite, Fuzi, Monk's Blood, Venus Chariot Plant

What is the plant

Aconitum napellus – also known as monkshood, wolfsbane and aconite – is plant steeped in lore because of the toxin, aconitine, it contains. It’s a beautiful herbaceous perennial with finely divided leaves similar to those of delphiniums, to which it’s related. It bears deep purple-blue flowers held on spires a metre or so in height and enjoys growing in cool, moist soil. It usually flowers in June and July.

If you’ve recognized any mistakes feel free to notify us about it. This would help us to provide only the best-quality information.

Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Part Sun

Hardiness zone

4 - 8

Difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Once established, monkshood is able to withstand short periods of drought, but for robust plants, provide a moist soil or water regularly.
Fertilizer
Once established, monkshood is able to withstand short periods of drought, but for robust plants, provide a moist soil or water regularly.
Sunlight
Ideally grow in a sheltered area of partial shade, but can survive in sunny areas when the soil has been enhanced with organic matter.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

Ease your plant care routine with PlantIn's personalized system.

Soil
Monkshood plants prefer a soil pH that is neutral to slightly acidic, but will tolerate other soils as long as they are rich, moist, and well-draining.
Temperature
Performs best when night-time temperatures remain below 21°C (70°F).
Additional
All parts of Aconitum are poisonous if ingested or if the sap comes into contact with any mucous membrane. Effects range from skin irritation to cardiac and respiratory failure. Always wash your hands after handling monkshood. You’ll find many references in literature to monkshood being used to kill enemies. Another common name for monkshood, wolf’s bane, refers to its use for getting rid of wolves. Do not grow this plant around young children or curious pets.