Aconite

Aconite

Aconitum napellus
Dogs: Severe Cats: Severe

Veterinary Emergency

Veterinary emergency. One of the most toxic garden plants. No specific antidote.

ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Plant Information

Monkshood, Wolfsbane, Devil's Helmet

Ranunculaceae

garden

Highly Toxic — Emergency Risk

Toxicity Details

all parts, roots, seeds

Aconitine alkaloids

10 minutes to 2 hours

severe

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Burning in mouth
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Cardiac arrhythmia
  • Paralysis
  • Respiratory failure

What to Do

Veterinary emergency. One of the most toxic garden plants. No specific antidote.

Do not wait for symptoms. Call your vet or poison control immediately.

About Aconite

Monkshood is arguably the most toxic garden flower in cultivation. Even skin contact can cause numbness and tingling. Roots are the most toxic part.

Safe Alternatives

These plants provide a similar look but are non-toxic to pets:

✓ Snapdragon ✓ Petunia ✓ Impatiens

Related:

Is Aconite toxic to dogs? Is Aconite toxic to cats?

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline, Merck Veterinary Manual. Plant image from Wikimedia Commons (CC). Not a substitute for veterinary advice. Last reviewed: June 2026.