Aconitum koreanum
Aconitum koreanumfam. Ranunculaceae
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Pl. F90D — Aconitum koreanum
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IOverview
Overview
Aconitum koreanum, a member of the Ranunculaceae family and native to Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Primorye, and parts of China North-Central and Mongolia, is a perennial plant known for its ornamental value as well as its edible and medicinal uses. This plant thrives in moist conditions with partial sun or shade, reaching heights of 1.5 meters. Its leaves are the edible part, often used in various culinary applications. Aconitum koreanum also has medicinal properties, although it is highly toxic and should be handled with care due to its potent alkaloids. One distinctive feature of this plant is its striking appearance, characterized by tall spikes of purple or white flowers that add a dramatic touch to any garden setting.
Quick answers
What is Aconitum koreanum?
Aconitum koreanum, a member of the Ranunculaceae family and native to Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Primorye, and parts of China North-Central and Mongolia, is a perennial plant known for its ornamental value as well as its edible and medicinal uses.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Traditionally used for calming the mind.
Digestive Harmony
digestiondecoction
Historically used for digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Aconitum koreanum thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial reaches a height of 1.5 meters and is hardy in temperate regions. For optimal growth, keep the soil consistently moist. Propagate through division in early spring. Harvest edible leaves for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Aconitum koreanum for the first time
7steps
Start with Skip as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Aconitum koreanum plant or seeds, potting mix, container if needed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery or sow seeds directly in the garden after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight for a week.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade, especially during hot summer months; water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain plant health; avoid harvesting edible parts for now.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Aconitum koreanum are edible and can be prepared in various ways. They are typically cooked before consumption to ensure safety. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 6 native
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanMongoliaSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Primorye
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Ranunculaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Ranunculaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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