The monkshoods are good perennials, slowly forming multi-stemmed plants. Some are tall species, and at the other extreme there are dwarf, high-altitude alpines. All have spikes of characteristic hooded flowers.

Aconitum cammarum var. bicolor is a striking form of a popular and reliable plant, with rich blue-and-white monkshood flowers. Ideal as a cut flower when grown in a sunny border, it also grows well in a woodland setting. It is widely used in cottage-style gardening. Would benefit from staking.