PlantFiles: Monkshood, Wolfbane
Aconitum 'Spark's Variety'

This plant has not performed well for me. I had it mixed in with a couple other varieties of monkshoods in eastern morning sun, going for an extended bloom, but this one was quite spindly and unable to hold itself up without support. I moved it to a sunnier location, with the same problem, the plant continued to reach toward the sun and flop. I will try moving it yet again, perhaps behind a sturdier plant which can help hold it up, but if it still does not do well, it's next move will be the compost. On the plus side, it does bloom much earlier (Jul-Aug) than my others, and is a pretty shade of violet-purple. Mine was labeled 'Henryi Spark' and seems to be a different shade than other photos on this site, so perhaps is actually a different cultivar.

A carefree and very productive Monkshood. I agree that the form loosens up a bit, but some selective support in tree branches or some staking is all that's required.

This is a fabulous monkshood. The colour is outstanding. While a bit "loose" in habit it doesn't really need staking or support. Blooms are in sprays rather than dense spikes.

Quite early to bloom (mid summer) and has a long period of interest.

Very hardy. Easy to divide and move around, unlike some other monkshoods.

Great plant. I highly recommend it.