Aconitum cammarum Pink Sensation

The 'Pink Sensation' Aconite is a beautiful hardy tuberous perennial that blooms from August to October in long panicles of pale pink helmet-shaped flowers. Little known, this 1m (3ft) tall plant produces deciduous, alternate, glossy, finely cut, lobed, dark green leaves that are 5 to 10cm (2 to 4in) long. The upright and arching stems bear 40cm (16in) long helmet-shaped flower panicles. Please note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested (anaesthetic) or in contact with the skin, so do not plant it near vegetables or children's areas, and avoid high traffic areas. Use gloves when handling and wash your hands afterwards.

The 'Pink Sensation' Aconite grows in deep, moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates limestone but dislikes dry and poor soils. It needs coolness in summer and no stagnant moisture in winter.

The Aconitum 'Pink Sensation' is a cross between the early Aconitum cammarum (two-coloured Aconite) and the later Aconitum carmichaelii. It has a fairly stable upright habit and is perfect against a wall or around a bush. Despite its toxicity, it deserves widespread use, as a background plant, in the company of hardy geraniums, dahlias or grasses such as Miscanthus.