Aconitum Austroyunnanense

Description

Aconitum austroyunnanense, commonly known as Yunnan Southern Monkshood or Climbing Monkshood, is a vigorous perennial climber native to Yunnan, China. Originally collected as seed from the Western Heights overlooking Kunming, Yunnan. It features twining stems that can reach up to 3 meters, adorned with deeply lobed, dark green leaves. In late summer to early autumn, it produces striking deep blue to purple helmet-shaped flowers, each approximately 5 cm long, arranged in generous axillary inflorescences. This plant adds vertical interest to gardens, making it ideal for trellises, arbors, or scrambling over rocks and shrubs. As with other members of the Aconitum genus, all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested; therefore, caution is advised when planting in areas accessible to children and pets.

Sowing Advice

Sow seeds IMMEDIATELY you receive them, at any time of the year, they depend on having several months in cold, damp compost, (NOT DRY IN A FRIDGE) before they will germinate. Keep the seed tray moist in a cold greenhouse or shady corner. These fresh seeds can be very slow to germinate. Do not use any artificial heat in an attempt to germinate them as it may cause them to enter even deeper dormancy. Plant out where it can climb through a shrub or hedge.

Key Facts