Monkshood

Genus Aconitum
Buttercup Family (Ranunculaceae)






Monkshood
Aconitum columbianum

The monkshood is named for the protective hood-like structure at the top of the flower. It resembles the hoods worn by monks in the middle ages. It is formed by the top sepal, and covers the reproductive organs of the flower. The flower is pollinated by bumblebees, which must force their way under the hood in order to reach the nectar and pollen. Other insects do not have the size and strength to do this.





Albion Basin
Wasatch Mountains
Salt Lake County, Utah

References


Photographed
by Sandra Bray