Aconitum carmichaelii Cloudy

Aconitum carmichaelii 'Cloudy' is an Aconite with a late and prolonged summer flowering that is particularly refined, taking the form of spikes loaded with large white flowers delicately edged with blue-mauve, reminiscent of an ancient helmet. This flowering rises above a clump of shiny and finely cut leaves, decorative outside of flowering. A preferred host of cool to moist and rich soils, this perennial is a beautiful plant for gently sunny or semi-shaded beds.

Aconitum 'Cloudy' is a horticultural variety derived from the Carmichael Aconite, and like all Aconites, belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. The flowering plant measures approximately 70-75cm (28-30in) in height, with a width of 30 to 40cm (12 to 16in). This deciduous perennial, very resistant to cold, emerges from the ground in spring and disappears underground in winter. The flowering of this late variety takes place between August and October. Clumps of leaves emerge from numerous branched, vertical floral stems, green in color with black stamens. Its elongated helmet-shaped flowers are composed of white petals irregularly bordered with soft blue-mauve, revealing a pale yellow throat. This plant develops from a fleshy tuberous stump, from which an erect clump of palmate, deeply lobed, leathery leaves emerges in spring. They are deeply veined, with a slightly shiny dark green colour. All parts of this perennial are highly toxic.

Aconites suffer from a bad reputation in the garden due to their legendary toxicity, which is regrettable because these field of plants have their place in all gardens, in cool soil. They are robust, very hardy, and their foliage is among the most beautiful among perennial plants. Not to mention their dazzling flowering, ranging from almost white to gentian blue, passing through soft yellow. They are perfect in borders, in the company of delphiniums, asters, Ligularias and Rodgersias for example. They can be planted among bushes, with Japanese anemones for example. They are good perennials, like foxgloves, for light and cool woodlands. Finally, their flowers are magnificent in bouquets.