Photo: Bernd Haynold, CC BY-SA 2.5 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Monkshood: when and how to prune
Aconitum napellus
Monkshood is best pruned in August and October.
| Pruning months | August and October |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Monkshood: when to prune it?
In August, cut back the faded spikes. In October, when the foliage dies down, cut the stems to just above the ground.
Monkshood: how to prune it?
- Always wear gloves.
- Cut a faded main spike back to just above the first leaf: the side spikes will then still flower.
- If you let it set seed, it sometimes self-sows; cut off the spikes if you do not want that.
- In autumn, cut all dead stems to just above the ground.
- Never put prunings in a field or in a chicken or rabbit run.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: August and October. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Monkshood flowers in June–August, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Caution: The sap is poisonous and can be absorbed through the skin or small cuts: never prune with bare hands.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.