What: Aconitum carmichaelii, or azure monkshood, has strong upright spikes of deep violet-blue flowers and can be the star of the garden in late summer to early fall. The delicate and lacey foliage lining the stems is a perfect compliment to the boldly colored blooms. This is the last monkshood to flower and is a great late season alternative to the pest prone delphinium.
Where: This monkshood grows best in rich moist to well-drained soils and sandy soils. It prefers regular watering during dry weather. If grown in sandy soils provide frequent watering, as monkshood resents drying out. Avoid hot locations. Plant this perennial in full sun to light or open shade. Stems are stronger in full sun, but flowers will tend to fade faster. In light or open shade the flowering stems can lean, but the intense flower color will last longer.
Size: Reaches a height of 4 feet with a spread of 3 feet.
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