ARCHIVED PLANT

We will not be offering this plant in 2025, though future propagation is planned. Please sign up for the waitlist below to receive updates on availability.

Aconitum lycoctonum | wolfsbane

syn. Aconitum vulparia

Wolfsbane, Monkshood, and Aconite are all common names for this beautiful, though highly toxic plant. A. lycotonum is a vigorous grower and bloomer. Glossy, dark palmate leaves are very attractive as are the spikes of pale yellow flowers.

Best grown in semi-shade in rich, fertile soil, but will tolerate other conditions. Tends to lean so plant it next to sturdier shrubs or perennials that can support its weight.

Fun Fact: Ancient Greeks used the roots of this plant to poison bait intended to kill wolves, leading to both the common and Latin names.

WARNING: All parts of this plant are extremely toxic.

Zones: 3 to 9
Family: Ranunculaceae
Type: Perennial
Height: 30 to 42 in.
Spread: 12 to 24 in.
Exposure: part-shade, shade
Soil Conditions: Average, humus rich, fertile, cool
Bloom Time: July to August
Bloom Color: Yellow
Native Range: E. Central & E. Europe

Special Characteristics

Deer-resistant
Clay tolerant
Rabbit resistant
Pollinator favorite

image credits

Image 1 (blooms) H. Zell, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Image 2 (form) Teun Spaans, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Image 3 (foliage) Salicyna, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Image 4 (native habit) Walter Starmühler, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons