Contents
Description
Angelica, also known as archangel or wild celery, is a popular medicinal herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and grows in damp meadows, along riverbanks, and in woodland areas. This biennial or perennial plant can grow up to 2 meters in height and has large, aromatic leaves that are divided into three leaflets. The flowers of Angelica are greenish-white and bloom in mid-summer.Angelica has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is known for its anti-inflammatory, digestive, and diuretic properties. It is often used to treat colds, coughs, and other respiratory problems, as well as digestive issues such as bloating and indigestion.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Angelica |
Appearance
Angelica has a distinctive appearance with large, lobed leaves and greenish-white flowers. The stem of the plant is hollow and ribbed, and can grow up to 2 meters in height. The leaves are arranged in a rosette and are divided into three leaflets that are toothed and serrated. The flowers of Angelica are small and arranged in umbels, which are flat-topped clusters of flowers that radiate from a central point.
Care Guide
Angelica is a relatively easy plant to care for and can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for Angelica:- Water: Angelica prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.- Fertilization: Angelica does not require much fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of compost or other organic fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: Angelica prefers rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.- Sunlight: Angelica can tolerate partial shade, but prefers full sun.- Hardiness Zones: Angelica can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Angelica is relatively pest and disease resistant, but can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. It may also attract aphids and other small insects, but these can usually be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Angelica is native to Europe and Asia and grows in damp meadows, along riverbanks, and in woodland areas. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate partial shade, but prefers full sun. Angelica can also be grown in gardens and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Angelica?
A: Angelica is known for its anti-inflammatory, digestive, and diuretic properties. It is often used to treat colds, coughs, and other respiratory problems, as well as digestive issues such as bloating and indigestion.
Q: Can Angelica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Angelica can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and have good drainage.
Q: What type of soil does Angelica prefer?
A: Angelica prefers rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
Q: What hardiness zones can Angelica grow in?
A: Angelica can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Related Plants
– Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)- Dill (Anethum graveolens)- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)- Carrot (Daucus carota)
References
– “Angelica archangelica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a396- “Angelica archangelica.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/1966/i-angelica-archangelica-i/details- “Angelica.” The Herb Society of America. https://www.herbsociety.org/factsheets/angelica-guide.pdf
