Angelica archangelica Plants and Herbs

Angelica Plants ( angelica archangelica and other species) are a group of biennial or perennial herbs found widely in Northern Europe and through Asia. Angelica sinensis, or 'dong quai' or 'female ginseng' is used in Chinese Medicine.

We would probably grow Angelica just because we love the name 'Angelica archangelica', sounds a little like an Italian movie star. However it really is a useful herb grown for its roots and is also found in cottage gardens. The young stems of Angelica are sometimes candied or used in the cooking of sour fruits to help reduce acidity. We use it when we cook rhubarb. Both the roots and the seeds are used to make aromatic oils.

A striking, tall aromatic plant that looks marvelous in borders and in woodland gardens. It is considered hardy and grows best in cool climates. The roots, leaves and stems of Angelica have been used for culinary and medicinal purposes since ancient times. It is said to be a treatment for many ailments and is used extensively in herbal medicine. It has many culinary uses as a flavouring agent and the stems can be candied and used for cake decoration. Angelica, however, is no longer confined to the herb and kitchen garden. It has now found its place in the ornamental landscape and brings joy to the gardener who wants an interesting, fragrant and majestic plant in the garden.

Species:

Growing Angelica in the Garden

It's another relative of parsley, so similar conditions apply. A hardy plant that enjoys a semi-shaded position. It grows to a height 200cm and has a spread of 120cm. In its first year it only grows foliage. In its second year, the stem can reach 2 metres. It is a biennial plant that dies back after flowering. Flowers bloom in July. They are small and numerous, white, yellow or greenish in colour and grouped into large umbels. The leaves are divided into three parts and each part is divided into three serrated leaflets. Angelica requires deep, fertile soil. It enjoys dappled shade. The plant will die in its second year if allowed to go to seed. Angelica produces a large amount of seed. It cannot be divided but it can be planted in autumn using freshly gathered seed.

If you are growing it in the garden border remember that Angelica archangelica will grow to nearly a two foot plant (2/3m) but with flower spikes in mid summer to 6ft (2m) so it needs to go towards the rear of the border. Angelica will self seed, so deadhead to control if needed. You might wish to collect some seeds for sowing the next spring.