Unpack bare roots or rhizomes on arrival and plant them within a week. Until then, keep them somewhere cool and ensure the roots remain slightly moist, never wet.
Few plants in late summer and autumn provide such intense blue flowers as Aconitum 'Arendsii'. Blooming later than most other Aconitum species, this beautiful hardy perennial is sometimes referred to as the autumn-flowering Monkshood, (the name of which is given because its hooded flowers resemble the hoods worn by medieval monks). From July onwards, it produces dense spires of rich azure-blue flowers. Stems are generally thicker than most other forms of Aconitum, this plant is less likely to need staking! It is also suitable for growing in a patio container.
Aconitum is the perfect cottage garden plant, and it is great for planting in front of tall shrubs, or under garden trees, provided the soil does not become too dry. This plant has a special relationship with bumble bees, as they are one of the few insects that are able to reach the nectar, hidden deep inside the hooded flower. In trials, Aconitum carmichaelii (Arendsii Group) 'Arendsii' has performed so well that it has received an Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
Caution: Toxic if eaten, and it is best to use gloves when handling.
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Plant profile
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Remove the packaging straight away, check the compost and water thoroughly if dry. Check the plant’s hardiness before placing it outdoors. Plant into a border or permanent container within a month, choosing the position recommended for the variety. Keep the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil, firm gently and water well.
Soak the roots in water for three to six hours immediately before planting. Keep any crown, buds or emerging shoots above the water where possible.
Pot most bare roots into 15–20cm pots filled with peat-free multipurpose compost. Large or depth-sensitive roots, including peonies, are often best planted directly into borders.
Arrange the roots naturally without bending them. Cover the roots completely, positioning the crown and buds at the depth recommended for that particular perennial.
Keep pots in a sheltered outdoor position and water whenever the compost begins to dry. Grow on until roots hold the compost together when lifted from the pot.
Plant into a suitable border or permanent container once well rooted. Add a label and water regularly throughout the first growing season while the perennial establishes.
- Botanical name
- Aconitum carmichaelii (Arendsii Group) 'Arendsii'
- Flower colour
- Blue
- Established height
- 1.2-1.5m
- Established spread
- 30-50cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Upright
Clump-forming - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant size
- 1
- Plant spacing
- 10 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- RHS Award (AGM)
-
No
Yes - Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
-
Damp
Free draining - Soil type
-
Clay
Loam
Multipurpose compost - Squirrel resistant
- Yes
- Suitable for
-
Borders
Cottage gardens
Cut flower Gardens
Woodland gardens
Wildlife gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade - Toxicity
-
Skin/eyes irritant
Toxic if eaten - Years to establish
- 2-3 years
Aconitum 'Arendsii' reviews
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Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.