Thoreau's Monkshood

aconitum anthora

Also known as: ["Anthora Monkshood","Yellow Monkshood"]

Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Aconitum Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant with yellowish flowers, known for its toxic properties and traditional medicinal uses.

Benefits & Perks

["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ranunculales
Family: Ranunculaceae
Genus: Aconitum
Botanical Name: Aconitum anthora

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, protected from strong winds
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late fall.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged growth.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sun or bright indirect light); adjust based on intensity and season.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in dappled shade in hot climates.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense midday sun; provide shade during peak heat.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); prefers cooler nights; tolerates frost but not extreme heat.

Protect from extreme heat; ensure good air circulation; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Fertilize sparingly; apply in spring before flowering; stop in late summer to avoid tender growth.

Propagation

Methods

Division or root cuttings; division is the most reliable method for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Divide clumps in spring/fall.
  2. Replant divisions at the same depth.
  3. Water well after planting.

Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is dormant or just beginning growth.

Environment

Cool, shaded environment with high humidity for root cuttings; division requires no special conditions.

Medium

Well-draining soil mix with added compost or peat moss.

Hormone

Not typically required for division; optional for root cuttings.

Timeline

Division: immediate establishment; root cuttings: 4–6 weeks for roots, 1–2 years for mature plants.

Tools Needed

Garden fork, sharp knife, pruning shears, gloves.

Quick Tips

Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has roots and shoots.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Deadhead flowers; cut back stems to the base in fall.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; cut back foliage in late fall to maintain tidiness.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; remove dead flowers; cut back foliage in fall; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat; leaf burn or browning in excessive cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; roots can become waterlogged in cold, wet soil.

Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; ensure good drainage; move potted plants to a sheltered location.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, and increased susceptibility to pests.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially nitrogen-rich formulas.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Aconitum anthora can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or root stress, often leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Aconitum anthora may result from water stress, either due to drought or root damage, causing cellular dehydration and potentially leading to irreversible plant damage if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Aconitum anthora can be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis, defoliation, and weakened plant health.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Aconitum anthora is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Aconitum anthora is toxic to cats, with the alkaloids causing severe gastrointestinal, cardiac, and neurological effects. Ingestion can result in life-threatening conditions requiring urgent veterinary care.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing collapse seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary assistance without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The toxic alkaloids in Aconitum anthora can cause severe gastrointestinal, cardiac, and neurological effects in dogs. Ingestion can lead to serious health issues, including potential organ failure.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing collapse seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Aconitum anthora contains toxic alkaloids that can cause severe physiological effects, including cardiac and neurological disturbances. The plant's toxicity is potent and can lead to serious health complications if ingested.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness weakness difficulty breathing heart palpitations
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Aconitum anthora safe to grow around pets?

A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats and should be kept away from pets.

Q: What are the traditional uses of Aconitum anthora?

A: It has been used in traditional medicine for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, though it is highly toxic and should only be used under professional guidance.

Q: How should Aconitum anthora be cared for?

A: It prefers partial shade, well-drained soil, and moderate watering; it is not suitable for beginners due to its toxicity and specific care needs.

Quick Reference
Family: Ranunculaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Maple-leaved Buttercup
View
Hooked Buttercup
View
Pyrenean Buttercup
View
Western pasqueflower
View