Aconitum columbianum Columbian monkshood Ranunculaceae Columbian monkshood is a striking wildflower of rich, moist, meadows, streambanks, and forest openings at middle to high elevations. The leaves are palmately divided almost to the base. The upper part of the tall (0.5-2 m) stem supports numerous flowers, one in the axil of each leaf. The flowers are deep purple-blue and bilaterally symmetrical. The uppermost of the 5 petaloid sepals forms a hood and conceals two petals. Columbian monkshood, like all monkshoods, is highly poisonous; small children shouldn't be allowed even to touch the leaves.