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| Monkshood; Timponeeke Trail, 7/13/2016, David Kenison |
This very unique and ornate violet or dark blue blossom is also known as Aconite or Western Monkshood; closely related species are Friar’s Cap, Wolf's Bane, Leopard's Bane, Mousebane, Women's Bane, Devil's Helmet, Blue Rocket, and Queen of Poisons. From the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae).
The monkshood is normally found growing in cooler, moist areas, often near a stream and shaded from prolonged sunshine, at moderate to high elevations. The plants can grow up to 6' tall.
The name Monkshood comes from the distinctive shape of the blossom, appearing like the cowl or hood of a medieval monk's habit.
The name of the Genus, Aconitum, is Greek for "unconquerable poison." Most species in the genus are very poisonous in their raw state, though the species usually found in the Wasatch is somewhat less toxic. The drug aconitine, extracted from plants growing in Europe and Asia, was used as a weapon and a means of execution in ancient times. In minute amounts and carefully controlled, it can be used medicinally to reduce fever or to treat neuralgia.
These photos were taken by the author at a variety of locations around Utah. Click to view enlargements.
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