Delphinium and monkshood, while closely related, are not the same plant. They do share similarities in terms of their growth habit and appearance, but there are some key differences that set them apart.
1. Taxonomy and Family:
Delphiniums belong to the family Ranunculaceae, commonly known as the buttercup family. They are part of the genus Delphinium, which includes over 300 species. On the other hand, monkshood is also a member of the Ranunculaceae family but belongs to the genus Aconitum, which has about 300 species worldwide.
2. Appearance:
Both delphiniums and monkshood are tall, herbaceous perennials with showy, upright flower spikes. However, there are distinct differences in their flower structure. Delphiniums have individual flowers clustered together along the spike, whereas monkshood flowers are more closely packed together and have a hood-like shape, giving the plant its common name.
3. Flower Colors and Varieties:
Delphiniums are known for their vibrant, diverse range of colors, including shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. They have been bred to produce a wide variety of cultivars, each with its own unique color and form. Monkshood, on the other hand, typically produces flowers in shades of blue, purple, or white.
4. Growth Habit and Care:
Both delphiniums and monkshood prefer similar growing conditions. They thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. However, delphiniums are generally considered more demanding in terms of care. They require regular watering, staking to support their tall flower spikes, and benefit from regular fertilization. Monkshood, on the other hand, is known for its ability to tolerate more shade and requires less maintenance overall.
5. Toxicity:
One significant difference between delphiniums and monkshood is their toxicity. While both plants contain toxic compounds, monkshood (Aconitum) is well-known for its extreme toxicity. All parts of the monkshood plant, especially the roots, contain aconitine alkaloids, which can be lethal if ingested. Delphiniums also contain toxic compounds but are considered less toxic compared to monkshood.
In my personal experience, I have grown both delphiniums and monkshood in my garden. Delphiniums have always been a favorite of mine due to their striking colors and elegant flowers. I have found them to be a bit more challenging to grow compared to monkshood, requiring extra care and attention. On the other hand, monkshood has thrived in shadier areas of my garden, adding a touch of beauty with its unique flower shape.
To summarize, while delphiniums and monkshood share some similarities in appearance and growth habit, they are distinct plants belonging to different genera within the same family. Delphiniums are known for their diverse colors and can be more demanding in terms of care, while monkshood is valued for its shade tolerance and unique flower shape. It is important to note the toxicity of monkshood, which makes it a plant to be handled with caution.
