What's this in my garden

Hi all
I moved into this house late last summer and could not spend much time gardening.
Now things are coming up and I don't recognize some of them.
Does anyone know what plant this is?
Thanks
Zandoli

 

Geranium?

 

looks like wild geranium

 

I strongly suspect it is a Monkshood (Aconitum sp.) There are several which are native in Canada & also many varieties available as ornamentals. We grow one of each that remain unidentified. Oh well.

Monkshood should be treated with great respect. It is very poisonous & can cause problems, apparently, when handled. I have grown it for many years, pruned it, transplanted it etc. & never had a problem....however.

I love it for it's history, mythology, chemistry & it is a spectacular addition to our herbaceous beds. The bugs love it too.

gb.

 

It could also be a Delphinium.

Post another picture when it blooms! That will settle all questions.

 

...too true. At least they are both often blue! I prefer Aconitum to Delphinium or Geraniums, so I am going to keep on rooting for the A team...grow, grow!

gb.

 

My thought was Delphinium too.

As an aside . . .

The two genera are similar, and closely related – does anyone know if Delphinium is as toxic as Aconitum, or not?

 

...no idea. But Delphiniums need a lot more staking & attention, & they get more diseases in my garden (Fraser Valley BC). I think the Aconitums are so poisonous that nothing dares attack them! Low maintenance gardening - love it.

Seriously, that's an interesting question. What are the diseases & insect eaters of Aconitum? I shall have to do some looking. I don't mean to hijack this thread. I can re-post if appropriate.

gb.

 

As toxic? Perhaps not, but certainly similarly toxic (like most Ranunculaceae).

 

Thank you all.
I will look into all 3 in depth. I have a 3 yr old grandson, so will be keeping it near the back of the bed, just in case it is monkshood.
I will be posting some more challenges. :-)
Zandoli

 

Pale coloring, leaf shape and hairiness like that of hybrid delphiniums. Nearby garden center may have some in stock to compare with.

 

Quite right...I just went & checked my Aconitums. Leaves are more or less hairless, darker green & shiny. I retire chastened. These contributors to these forums are gradually re-teaching me to look (really look) at the plants.

gb