Aconitum japonicum

Family: Ranunculaceae

What it is like

Aconitum japonicum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from August to October. The flowers are 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.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

Forests, forest margins, by streams at elevations of 500 - 1500 metres in Liaoning province.

E. Asia - China, Japan.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 2

This is a widely used herbal remedy in China, where it is cultivated for its root. The root is analgesic, antirheumatic, cardiotonic and stimulant. Used in the treatment of neuralgia. Use with caution, and only under the supervision of a qualified practitioner. The plant is very poisonous and should not be used internally.

Analgesic: Relieves pain.

Antirheumatic: Treats rheumatism.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Thrives in most soils and in the light shade of trees. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Prefers a moist soil in sun or semi-shade. Prefers a calcareous soil. A very ornamental plant, it grows well in open woodlands. Members of this genus seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits and deer. A greedy plant, inhibiting the growth of nearby species, especially legumes. Closely related to A. chinensis.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. The seed can be stratified and sown in spring but will then be slow to germinate. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a cold frame for their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer. Division - best done in spring but it can also be done in autumn. Another report says that division is best carried out in the autumn or late winter because the plants come into growth very early in the year.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

The whole plant is highly toxic - simple skin contact has caused numbness in some people.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

A. faurei. Léveille.&Vaniot.