These are tall, handsome perennials, with very poisonous roots, which make it dangerous to plant them in or near gardens. Being usually very vigorous in constitution, they spread freely, and hold their own amongst the strongest herbaceous hints and weeds ; masses of them seen in flower in copses or near hedgerows afford a very fine effect. There are many species, all nearly of equal value for the wild garden. Coming from the plains and mountains of Siberia and Northern Europe and America, they are among the hardiest of plants. When spreading groups of Aconites are in bloom in copses or open spaces in shrubberies, their effect is far finer than when the plants are tied into bundles in trim borders. The old blue-and-white bind is charming in half-shady spots, attaining stately dimensions in good soil. The species grow in any soil, but are often somewhat stunted in growth on clay.

The Monkshood, naturalised by wet ditch in wood.