Blue and white Aconitum Collection

The collection includes:

- x 1 Monkshood (Aconitum napellus): the wild montane species with deep indigo blue flowers, blooming from late June to late August. It reaches a height of 90cm (35in) to 1.20m (4ft) when in flower.

- x 1 White Monkshood (Aconitum napellus 'Album'): a beautiful form producing white flowers with hints of grayish-pink. Like the wild species, it flowers from late June to August and reaches a height of 90cm (35in) to 1.20m (4ft) when in flower.

- x 1 Spark's Variety Monkshood (Aconitum henryi): a horticultural variety that can reach a height of 1.50m (5ft) when in flower. It blooms slightly later than the previous two, from September to October. Its flowers are dark blue-violet to deep midnight blue.

Plant them in February-March or October-November, in a rich and well-drained soil that remains slightly moist in summer, in partial shade or non-scorching sun (preferably morning sun). A mixture of compost, peat, and garden soil in equal parts will be suitable. Be aware of windy exposures that can damage their tall flower spikes. Stake the tallest flower spikes to prevent them from bending. Allow 3 to 4 plants per square metre, with a minimum spacing of 50cm (20in) between plants or with other plants. The deciduous foliage of the aconites emerges from the ground each spring and dries up in autumn. Their roots can withstand temperatures as low as -23°C (-9.4°F).

The tall stature of Aconitum makes them perfect for the back of perennial borders, especially with foxgloves and black cohosh (Actaea or Cimicifuga) for enchanting scenes in partial shade. They can also be planted among bushes for support, for example, in the company of Japanese anemones 'Septemberglanz' and 'Queen Charlotte' which bloom from August to October. They also look stunning in front of the dark foliage of Physocarpus 'Rubella' or 'Midnight' for example. They are good perennials for light and cool woodland areas. Their flowers are beautiful in bouquets.