Herbs · Poison garden

Monkshood

Aconitum napellus · also called Wolfsbane, Aconite, Queen of poisons

A tall, upright garden perennial with deep blue-violet flowers shaped like a monk's hood, one of the most poisonous plants in gardens.

In the garden

Part shade and moist, rich soil. Wear gloves when planting or cutting; the sap can poison through the skin. Keep it away from children and pets, or do not grow it.

Take care

• Every part of the plant is extremely poisonous. Even handling it without gloves can cause numbness and heart problems.
• Wash hands well after contact.
• Keep children and pets away.

Folklore and garden information only, not medical advice. Do not eat or use any plant unless you are certain what it is and that it is safe for you. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, on medicine, or choosing for children or pets.