Angelica
Estimated delivery between February 05 and February 08.
Angelica is a striking, aromatic perennial plant prized for its large, architectural growth and distinctive, fern-like foliage. Known for its towering stems and beautiful, umbel-shaped flower clusters, Angelica is often used in herb gardens, medicinal gardens, and for ornamental purposes. It has a long history of use in traditional herbal remedies and culinary applications, making it a versatile addition to the garden. This plant thrives in moist, shaded areas, and it adds a bold, dramatic presence with its tall, upright form and vibrant green foliage.
Key Benefits
- Distinctive Appearance: Tall, imposing growth with dramatic flower clusters and fern-like leaves that make a bold statement in any garden.
- Versatile Culinary and Medicinal Uses: Leaves, stems, and seeds are edible, and Angelica has been traditionally used in herbal remedies and as a flavoring agent.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens.
- Fragrant: The plant’s leaves and flowers release a sweet, herbal aroma, adding a unique fragrance to the garden.
- Cold-Hardy: Thrives in cooler climates, making it an excellent choice for gardens in northern regions.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Angelica is a tall, biennial or short-lived perennial, reaching heights of 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 meters). It produces large, umbrella-like clusters of tiny greenish-white flowers in late spring to early summer.
- Foliage: Large, finely cut, and aromatic leaves that grow in a rosette at the base, with taller stems that support the flowers.
- Flowers: Umbel-shaped clusters of small greenish-white to yellowish flowers, typically blooming in late spring to early summer.
- Growth Habit: Upright and dramatic, often forming a large, bushy clump in garden beds or at the back of herbaceous borders.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Best Time to Plant: Angelica should be planted in early spring, after the last frost has passed. It can also be started indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost and then transplanted.
- Ideal Growing Conditions: Prefers cooler temperatures and thrives in moist, partially shaded areas, especially in climates with mild summers.
Planting Details
- Planting Depth: Plant Angelica seeds 1/4 inch deep in soil. If starting from transplants, plant at the same depth as they were in their pots.
- Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for their large size and wide growth habit.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained, rich, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
- Sunlight: Grows best in partial shade or light shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Watering Needs: Angelica thrives in consistently moist soil but does not like to be waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist but well-drained.
- Avoid Overwatering: Ensure the soil does not become soggy, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
- Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced fertilizer or organic compost in the spring to encourage healthy growth. Angelica benefits from regular feeding, especially in nutrient-poor soils.
- Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, keep the roots cool, and suppress weeds.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Pruning: Remove dead or damaged stems and leaves to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage new growth. Cut back spent flowers after blooming to prevent self-seeding if desired.
- Support: Due to its tall growth, Angelica may need support, especially in windy areas. Use stakes or plant it near taller plants for stability.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Angelica is generally pest-resistant but can attract aphids, slugs, or snails. Hand-pick pests or use organic insecticidal soap if needed.
- Diseases: While Angelica is relatively disease-resistant, it can suffer from fungal infections in overly wet conditions. Ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Harvesting
- Harvesting Leaves: Harvest the leaves early in the growing season when they are young and tender. They can be used fresh or dried for later use.
- Harvesting Stems: The young stems can be harvested in early summer, before the plant flowers. They can be used in recipes or candied for use in desserts.
- Seeds: If you're harvesting seeds for use, wait until the umbels have dried on the plant, then collect the seeds once they have fully matured.
Storage
- Drying: Dry the leaves, stems, or flowers in a cool, dark place. Once dried, store in airtight containers for later use in teas, tinctures, or as culinary flavorings.
- Fresh Storage: Fresh leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, while fresh stems can be kept in a damp cloth or water until used.
Culinary Uses
- Tea: Angelica leaves and seeds can be used to make a soothing herbal tea, often combined with other herbs for added flavor.
- Candied Stems: The young stems are often candied and used as a sweet treat or garnish for desserts.
- Flavored Liqueurs: Angelica has a long history of being used in the making of herbal liqueurs, such as Chartreuse.
- Flavoring: Use Angelica leaves in salads, soups, or as a flavoring for cakes and pies. The root and seeds can also be used as a flavoring agent in pickles, jams, and jellies.
Medicinal Uses
Angelica has traditionally been used in herbal medicine for its various health benefits, including its use as a digestive aid, to relieve menstrual cramps, and to treat colds. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using Angelica for medicinal purposes.
Conclusion
Angelica is a highly versatile, aromatic perennial that adds both beauty and functionality to the garden. With its striking appearance, pollinator appeal, and various culinary and medicinal applications, Angelica is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to grow a plant that offers both ornamental and practical value. Whether used as a focal point in the garden, as an herbal remedy, or as an ingredient in your kitchen, Angelica is sure to be a rewarding addition to any garden.
Dharaseeds
Angelica
Estimated delivery between February 05 and February 08.
Angelica is a striking, aromatic perennial plant prized for its large, architectural growth and distinctive, fern-like foliage. Known for its towering stems and beautiful, umbel-shaped flower clusters, Angelica is often used in herb gardens, medicinal gardens, and for ornamental purposes. It has a long history of use in traditional herbal remedies and culinary applications, making it a versatile addition to the garden. This plant thrives in moist, shaded areas, and it adds a bold, dramatic presence with its tall, upright form and vibrant green foliage.
Key Benefits
- Distinctive Appearance: Tall, imposing growth with dramatic flower clusters and fern-like leaves that make a bold statement in any garden.
- Versatile Culinary and Medicinal Uses: Leaves, stems, and seeds are edible, and Angelica has been traditionally used in herbal remedies and as a flavoring agent.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens.
- Fragrant: The plant’s leaves and flowers release a sweet, herbal aroma, adding a unique fragrance to the garden.
- Cold-Hardy: Thrives in cooler climates, making it an excellent choice for gardens in northern regions.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Angelica is a tall, biennial or short-lived perennial, reaching heights of 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 meters). It produces large, umbrella-like clusters of tiny greenish-white flowers in late spring to early summer.
- Foliage: Large, finely cut, and aromatic leaves that grow in a rosette at the base, with taller stems that support the flowers.
- Flowers: Umbel-shaped clusters of small greenish-white to yellowish flowers, typically blooming in late spring to early summer.
- Growth Habit: Upright and dramatic, often forming a large, bushy clump in garden beds or at the back of herbaceous borders.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Best Time to Plant: Angelica should be planted in early spring, after the last frost has passed. It can also be started indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost and then transplanted.
- Ideal Growing Conditions: Prefers cooler temperatures and thrives in moist, partially shaded areas, especially in climates with mild summers.
Planting Details
- Planting Depth: Plant Angelica seeds 1/4 inch deep in soil. If starting from transplants, plant at the same depth as they were in their pots.
- Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for their large size and wide growth habit.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained, rich, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
- Sunlight: Grows best in partial shade or light shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Watering Needs: Angelica thrives in consistently moist soil but does not like to be waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist but well-drained.
- Avoid Overwatering: Ensure the soil does not become soggy, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
- Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced fertilizer or organic compost in the spring to encourage healthy growth. Angelica benefits from regular feeding, especially in nutrient-poor soils.
- Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, keep the roots cool, and suppress weeds.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Pruning: Remove dead or damaged stems and leaves to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage new growth. Cut back spent flowers after blooming to prevent self-seeding if desired.
- Support: Due to its tall growth, Angelica may need support, especially in windy areas. Use stakes or plant it near taller plants for stability.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Angelica is generally pest-resistant but can attract aphids, slugs, or snails. Hand-pick pests or use organic insecticidal soap if needed.
- Diseases: While Angelica is relatively disease-resistant, it can suffer from fungal infections in overly wet conditions. Ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Harvesting
- Harvesting Leaves: Harvest the leaves early in the growing season when they are young and tender. They can be used fresh or dried for later use.
- Harvesting Stems: The young stems can be harvested in early summer, before the plant flowers. They can be used in recipes or candied for use in desserts.
- Seeds: If you're harvesting seeds for use, wait until the umbels have dried on the plant, then collect the seeds once they have fully matured.
Storage
- Drying: Dry the leaves, stems, or flowers in a cool, dark place. Once dried, store in airtight containers for later use in teas, tinctures, or as culinary flavorings.
- Fresh Storage: Fresh leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, while fresh stems can be kept in a damp cloth or water until used.
Culinary Uses
- Tea: Angelica leaves and seeds can be used to make a soothing herbal tea, often combined with other herbs for added flavor.
- Candied Stems: The young stems are often candied and used as a sweet treat or garnish for desserts.
- Flavored Liqueurs: Angelica has a long history of being used in the making of herbal liqueurs, such as Chartreuse.
- Flavoring: Use Angelica leaves in salads, soups, or as a flavoring for cakes and pies. The root and seeds can also be used as a flavoring agent in pickles, jams, and jellies.
Medicinal Uses
Angelica has traditionally been used in herbal medicine for its various health benefits, including its use as a digestive aid, to relieve menstrual cramps, and to treat colds. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using Angelica for medicinal purposes.
Conclusion
Angelica is a highly versatile, aromatic perennial that adds both beauty and functionality to the garden. With its striking appearance, pollinator appeal, and various culinary and medicinal applications, Angelica is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to grow a plant that offers both ornamental and practical value. Whether used as a focal point in the garden, as an herbal remedy, or as an ingredient in your kitchen, Angelica is sure to be a rewarding addition to any garden.
Non-GMO
Dharaseeds are Non-GMO and free from genetically modified organisms.
High Germination Rate
Tested for high viability to ensure successful sprouting.
Heirloom Variety
Open-pollinated seeds preserved for quality and authenticity.
Chemical-Free
Free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and additives.