
Delphinium
Delphinium elatum
Aconitum napellus
Hooded purple-blue flowers on tall spikes. True blue color. Also called wolfsbane. EXTREMELY TOXIC - all parts deadly. Beautiful but dangerous. Cottage garden plant. Named for hood-shaped flowers.
Summer
Temperate
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Stays fresh for 7 to 10 days
when properly cared for
Monkshood has no fragrance
One of the most toxic plants - aconitine can be absorbed through skin. Handle only with gloves.
Called Wolfs Bane because it was used to poison wolves
Was the poison of choice for assassinations in ancient Rome
The hood shape is designed to attract bumblebees
Despite toxicity, used in homeopathic remedies in extreme dilution
Native to mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, monkshood has a dark history as a poison plant. Ancient Greeks believed it grew from the saliva of Cerberus, guardian of the underworld. Despite its danger, its striking blue spires have made it a cottage garden staple for those who respect its toxicity.

Aquilegia vulgaris