Name: Aconitum

Aliases: Monkshood, Wolfbane, Leopard's Bane, Devil's Helmet, Blue Rocket, Woman's Bane, Aconite

Starting off our breakdown of plants is none other than one of the most dangerous, Aconite. This plant is one that can kill with just one taste or touch, and is a favorite still of assassins. This is actually how it got it's name, which comes from the Greek word ἀκόνιτον, which means "without struggle". 

The Greeks also were the start of the mythology behind this plant, beginning with the twelve labors of Hercules. The strong-armed hero, trying to atone for the deaths of his wife and children, was told to bring Cerberus up from the Underworld. When this had been done, the spittle from the gigantic beast's maw was said to have dropped down to the earth and up sprouted the first aconite plant. This plant also played a part in Plutarch's Ovid, as this was the same poison Medea tried to use on Theseus, her illegitimate step-son.

Stepping away from the plant's history, we now come to what it can be used for. Some bugs, such as the Yellow-Tailed Butterfly, eat this to make themselves toxic, thus deterring predators from having them as a snack. Due to its' sedative nature, the most well known potion it is in is the Draught of Living Death. In ancient times, Aconite was also applied to the tips of arrows to kill wolves, thus how the name 'Wolfsbane' came to be.

Growth Conditions:

Soil pH Levels: 6.5

Sunlight Level: Low; Does best in shade.

Water Levels: Moderate

Additional Notes: Will perform best in dark, fluffy soil. DO NOT HANDLE WITHOUT PROTECTIVE GEAR!

Danger Level: Highly Deadly

Treatment:

Should you come into contact with Aconite, rather by touch or ingestion, get to a medical facility immediately. The only antidote for poisoning is antropine.

Initial symptoms (Which Appear In First Hour): Nausea, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Tingling of the Mouth and/or Face, Burning Sensation of Mouth, Face, and Abdomen

Severe Symptoms (Occur within 2-6 Hours of Exposure): Confusion, Trouble Breathing, Headaches, Numbness of the Body, Sweating, Dizziness, and Death.