Aconitum palmatum

Physical Characteristics

Aconitum palmatum is a PERENNIAL. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas in Nepal, Sikkim and south Tibet.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antiperiodic Tonic The root of this species is said to be non-toxic[240, 243], though some caution should be applied to this statement[K]. The root is antiperiodic and tonic[240]. It is used in the treatment of rheumatism and diarrhoea[240, 243].

Known Hazards

One report says that this species has a non-poisonous root[240], though this should be treated with caution[K]. The following notes are based on the general toxicity of the genus. The whole plant is highly toxic - simple skin contact has caused numbness in some people[1, 200].