Angiosperms (Flowering Plants) • Earth.com

Aconitum napellus polatschekii

(Aconitum napellus polatschekii)

galery
en

Description

“Pet poisonous” – Toxic parts: roots, foliage and seeds Aconitum Napellus: The Monkshood Introduction: Aconitum napellus, commonly known as Monkshood, is a species of flowering plant in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, but has been introduced to other regions and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. Description: Aconitum napellus is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 1-2 meters tall. The plant has dark green leaves that are divided into several lobes, and the stems are covered with a dense layer of hair. The flowers are hood-like, hence the common name Monkshood, and are blue, purple, or white in color. The flowers grow in spikes on the upper part of the plant, and bloom from July to September. Habitat: Aconitum napellus is commonly found in moist and shady habitats, such as woods, meadows, and river banks. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and well-drained. The plant is hardy and can grow in a range of climates, but it prefers cool and temperate regions. Cultivation: Aconitum napellus is relatively easy to cultivate and can be grown from seed or by division. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It is important to plant the Monkshood away from other plants and to space them out, as the plant can become invasive. Uses: Aconitum napellus has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia. The roots, leaves, and flowers of the plant contain toxic alkaloids, including aconitine, which can have a potent effect on the heart and nervous system. Despite its toxic properties, the plant has been used to treat a range of conditions, including rheumatism, arthritis, and neuralgia. In modern times, Aconitum napellus is used mainly for ornamental purposes and is a popular plant for flower gardens and rock gardens. The plant is also used in landscaping and as a cut flower. Toxicity: It is important to note that all parts of Aconitum napellus are highly toxic and should not be consumed or handled without proper protective gear. The toxic alkaloids present in the plant can cause serious health problems, including heart palpitations, convulsions, and death. Conclusion: Aconitum napellus, the Monkshood, is a beautiful and hardy plant that has been used for both medicinal and ornamental purposes for centuries. Despite its toxic properties, the plant remains a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers. As with any toxic plant, it is important to handle Aconitum napellus with caution and to keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Taxonomic tree:

Domain:
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum:
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order:Ranunculales
Family:Ranunculaceae
Genus:Aconitum
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