Aconitum carmichaelii 'Blue Bishop'
(Blue Monkshood)
Family: Ranunculaceae
Light: Sun-part shade
Height: 3-6'
Spacing: 15"
Blooms: Blue-violet, hooded, late Summer
Foliage: Dark green, glossy, changes to yellow in Fall
Soil: Well-drained, moist, sandy, clayey. acidic, neutral, alkaline
Water: Moderate, more in Summer
Uses: Cut flowers, accent, woodland setting, back of perennial bed, mass plant
Propagation: Seeds (In Spring)
Caution: Plant is poisonous - do not eat
Comments: Aconitum carmichael 'Blue Bishop' or Blue Monkshood is an old-fashioned perennial from England with an erect, bushy growth habit. It has glossy deep green foliage. In late Summer or early Fall, Aconitum carmichael 'Blue Bishop' produces spectacular tall spikes of long blooming hooded violet-blue blossoms followed later by seeds. Florists are delighted with the cut flowers. Cut spent blossoms to promote extra blooms. Blue Monkshood is easily propagated from seeds in Spring. It performs best in well-drained, moist sandy, clayey soil in a sunny to part shade location. Mass plant Aconitum carmichael 'Blue Bishop' for a fabulous show in the back of perennial border or use it as an accent plant. Provide stakes when necessary. Deers and rabbits would not go near this delightful English heirloom. Blue Monkshood had been popularly cultivated by many hobbyists since the 17th century and its popularity is still strong. Grow this stunning beauty in a woodland setting. It self sows readily and divided every few years in Spring to avoid overcrowding. Provide Aconitum carmichael 'Blue Bishop' with sufficient water in the dry Summer months. Its stature and long lasting showy large flowerhead easily catches everyone's attention. Blue Monkshood looks incredible in the Fall as its glossy green foliage changes to yellow, providing a colorful Fall landscape.
USDA Zones: 2-7
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