Otherwise known as Monkshood or Wolfsbane, (in muggle society "the queen of poisons", leopard's bane, women's bane, blue rocket, and devil's helmet are other names which refer to Aconite) Aconitum comes from the Greek word ἀκόνιτον or akonitos, meaning 'without dust' or 'without struggle'. Without struggle would be the more appropriate reference, and refers to the toxicity of aconite leaves, which were often used to kill wild animals during the middle ages. The poison was also applied to the tips of arrows when muggles fought each other in battle. Aconite is a poisonous sedative, powerful in small doses, and can be used to slow heart rate. It is also known to treat prickly pain in the skin.

Aconite can be found in the wild, in forests and mountain ranges of moderate temperatures. To care for Aconite, always wear your dragon-hide gloves. If you are harvesting the plant outdoors, be careful not to leave parts of the root exposed, as it can harm the wildlife nearby. (Remember, Aconite is highly poisonous). When growing Aconite, one had best use nutritious soil, the darker and fluffier the better. Aconite thrives in shady areas, so if you are planting outside it is best to plant Aconite close to trees. Do not attend to your Aconite while you have open wounds on your hand, as it takes great caution to ensure correct dosages of Aconite are used at the best of times. If your wound becomes infected by Aconite's poison, apply the antidote (a fully plant based potion: antropine) immediately, and head to St. Mungo's, as only certified Healers will be able to fully handle your care. The importance of seeking treatment cannot be stressed enough. Death occurs almost instantaneously with large doses, although usually within two and six hours of exposure. Symptoms (which are evident within the first hour) include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting first, and then sensations of burning in the abdomen, mouth, and face, as well as tingling and numbness in the mouth and face. As death nears, numbness spreads throughout the body. Sweating, dizziness, headaches, confusion, and troubles with breathing may also occur.