Aconitum Episcopale

Aconitum episcopale is a dramatic climbing monkshood from China, producing slender twining stems that can rise several metres by winding through neighbouring shrubs. Glossy, deeply divided leaves form an elegant green framework before loose clusters of intense blue-purple, helmet-shaped flowers appear in late summer and autumn. It is an excellent choice for adding vertical colour without the weight of a woody climber, especially in a cool woodland border with humus-rich soil. All parts contain potent toxins, and gloves should always be worn when handling seed, roots or foliage.