Garden Angelica

Garden Angelica Overview

Angelica archangelica is a striking architectural plant with a bushy appearance and bright mid-green leaves that are divided into a 2-3 pinnate arrangement that produces ovate, toothed leaflets. It is a robust herbaceous plant that is often treated as a biennial. Remove seedheads, if it's required as a perennial, as it will die once it has flowered (monocarpic) - although it may take several years before it blooms in the first place. Also known as Angel's Fishing Rod or Angelica (amongst other names), it produces attractive, rounded umbels of pale yellow-green flowers early in summer. Its hollow stalks are ribbed and are edible - with a taste similar to celery, only sweeter. The whole plant gives off an attractive fragrance. The genus Angelica has a long history of cultivation for use in medicine, as a flavouring agent, and as a vegetable. The name Angelica is derived from the Latin word angelicus, which translates to "angel", and suggests divine healing powers. Best grown in deep, moist/poorly-drained, fertile soil, it is happy in a partially shaded or a sunny position, but avoid hot, dry conditions. Angelica archangelica is a suitable plant for the back of herb or flower borders, wildflower meadows, woodland settings or alongside water. It is part of the Royal Horticultural Society “Plants for Pollinators” initiative to showcase plants which support pollinator populations by providing ample amounts of nectar and/or pollen. A great choice for encouraging pollinating insect wildlife into your garden!