What Is the Nuisance Weed Wolfsbane?

Wolfsbane, also known as Aconitum, is a perennial plant commonly found in the mountainous regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. These invasive plants stand out with their beautiful purple bell-shaped flowers, but they have also been considered a nuisance and poisonous weed amongst garden plants due to their toxic nature. The toxins in Wolfsbane are extremely dangerous to humans and animals and can cause a slowing heart rate which could be fatal, even eating a very small amount can lead to an upset stomach and being very unwell and it can cause serious health issues through contact with the skin, particularly through open wounds. Always be extremely cautious if you have it growing at your property or on your land.

Find out everything you need to know about Wolfsbane which is found all over the UK in gardens, roadsides and nature areas.

Green Leaf Remediation are experts in nuisance weeds found in the UK and can advise you on your best course of action if you are concerned you have Wolfsbane or another nuisance weed growing at your property.

What are the characteristics of Wolfsbane?

Wolfsbane is a perennial herb and a member of the buttercup family. These flowering plants typically grow to about 2-4 feet tall and have a distinctive appearance, with a thick, hairy stem and large, basal leaves that are lobed or divided. The leaves are typically dark green and glossy on the upper surface and paler and fuzzy on the lower surface.
The most striking feature of wolfsbane is its pink flowers typically blue or purple, arranged in a large, helmet-like structure called an inflorescence. The flowers are
usually spiralled along the stem and have five petals. Each flower also has a large, hood-like structure called the upper sepal, which surrounds the plant’s reproductive organs.
These shrubby-looking weed plants bloom in late summer or early fall, and the flowers can last for several weeks. After blooming, the plant produces small, dry, seed-like fruits called achenes, which the wind can disperse.

Why is Wolfsbane dangerous?

Despite its attractive appearance, wolfsbane is highly toxic and one of the most unwanted plants as mentioned by the Wildlife and Countryside act. All parts of the aggressive climbing weed plant contain a toxin alkaloid called aconitine, which can cause severe symptoms if ingested. Aconitine can cause numbness, tingling, and a burning sensation in the mouth and throat. It can also cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. In some cases, it has been known to cause heart palpitations, seizures, and even death.

The poisonous weed Wolfsbane is also toxic to grazing farm animals and many livestock have been known to die after eating this poisonous weed. The toxic alkaloids in the plant can also be absorbed through the skin, making it dangerous to handle.

What are the applications of Wolfsbane?

Despite their toxic nature, these native plants are still used in traditional medicine in some parts of the world today. It has been used for centuries for various purposes, such as reducing pain and fever, but it can also be fatal if ingested in large quantities. It was also used to poison arrows and to make poisons for hunting and warfare.
In folklore and popular culture, it is often associated with werewolf legends and is said to ward off or kill werewolves if ingested or used as a weapon. However, it is important to note that the use of wolfsbane in medicine should only happen under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

How do you control it?

As a nuisance weed, wolfsbane can be challenging to control once established in an area. The plant has a deep taproot and can grow in various soil types, making it hard to eradicate. The best way to control wolfsbane is to prevent it from becoming established in the first place. You can do this by removing plants in the area and keeping an eye out for new growth.

However, there are several methods you can use to control the wolfsbane weed once established, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Hand Pulling

This method involves physically removing the plant from the ground, including the roots. It is most effective for small and early plant populations and comes in handy alongside other control methods. However, it can be labour-intensive and not practical for large areas.
It’s important to note that the plant is toxic; all parts, including the roots, leaves, stem, and flowers, contain poisonous alkaloids that can cause severe symptoms if ingested or touched. So be sure to have enough protective gear when hand-pulling.

Chemical Control

Using herbicides can be an effective way to control wolfsbane. However, it is vital to choose the right herbicide and follow the instructions carefully, as some herbicides may be ineffective against the plant or harmful to other plants and animals. Only ever use herbicides that you are legally allowed to use in the UK and be extremely careful.

Biological Control

This method involves using other organisms, such as insects or diseases, to control the population of the plant. This can be a long-term, sustainable solution, but it can take time to establish and monitor.

Cultural Control

This method involves altering the growing conditions to make it difficult for the plant to thrive. For example, reducing the amount of sunlight the plant receives by planting taller plants around it or improving soil to make it less favourable for the plant to grow.

Combination of Methods

A combination of methods can be more effective than just one. For example, hand-pulling small plant populations, using herbicides for larger areas, and cultural control methods to prevent new growth.

It is important to note that, as with all weed control methods, timing is crucial for effectively controlling wolfsbane. The best time to handle it is when it is in its flowering stage, when the plant puts most of its energy into reproduction, making it more vulnerable to control measures.

You can also use chemical herbicides to control wolfsbane, but take care not to cause harm to other plants and animals in the area. Biological control methods, such as using insects or pathogens, are being researched as a potential method of controlling this weed.

In Summary

Whilst Wolfsbane looks like a beautiful and unique plant, its toxic nature makes it a nuisance weed that can harm both humans and animals. If you suspect that Wolfsbane is growing on your property, it is really important to take steps to control it quickly but you must avoid coming into contact with the plant. If you have any concerns about Wolfsbane, it is always best to consult with a professional, such as a botanist or a weed industry expert like ourselves at Green Leaf Mediation.

Contact us today on 0117 321 7799 or 07531 142316 and one of our experts will be able to advise you.