need to be able to identify aconitum/monkshood...

[WilfSell]

When I viewed the new house that we now live in, I was convinced that the blue spike flower in the bed was aconitum. Resolved to check if and when we moved in so I could remove it.

Now things are coming up and I want to be able to identify it from its leaf shape if possible so I can at least keep the kids away until I'm sure what it is.

Does anyone know of a good online site with leaf images as well as flowers (I know what the flowers look like but they're not out yet obv)...

I guess it could be something else - was darkish/mid blue, spike form flower stalk with individual flowers.

didn't think it looked like a delphinium or harebells - any ideas what else it could be?

Thanks - hope you can help?

anyone?

You're right to be cautious. Some poisonous plants are only mildly poisonous - in other words it would take a ton to kill you - but aconitum is very toxic. My friend's pet rabbit nibbled on somenew spring leaves ans was dead before she could get it to the vet.

Shame, because aconitum was one of my favourite plants pre-baby. New leaves are quite bright green and finely-cut and your description does sound rather like aconitum. Could you take a sample of your plant to a local nursery or botanic garden for identification? RHS will do this by post for members.

thanks - I did finally manage to find an image of the leafshape and now I am sure it is so we're actually going to dig it up tomorrow (wearing gloves!)

Now wondering if I can just take it to the green waste place at the tip...

I think you can, because generally any poisonous component breaks down as part of the composting process. As far as I know, that applies to aconitum too.