Angelica Archangelica
Contents
Description
Angelica Archangelica, also known as Garden Angelica or Wild Celery, is a biennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Northern Europe, including Iceland and Greenland. The plant can grow up to 6 feet in height and has a stout, hollow stem that can be up to 2 inches in diameter. The leaves are large and can be up to 3 feet long, with leaflets that are toothed and serrated. The flowers are small and white or greenish-yellow, and the fruit is a dry, two-seeded schizocarp.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Angelica |
Appearance
Angelica Archangelica has a distinctive appearance, with its tall, stout stem and large, toothed leaves. The stem is hollow and can be up to 2 inches in diameter, with a greenish-gray color. The leaves are large and can be up to 3 feet long, with leaflets that are toothed and serrated. The flowers are small and white or greenish-yellow in color, and are arranged in umbels. The fruit is a dry, two-seeded schizocarp that is about 1/4 inch in length.
Care Guide
Angelica Archangelica requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun to partial shade, and should be watered regularly. It is a hardy plant and can tolerate cold temperatures, but it should be protected from strong winds. Fertilization is important for the plant’s growth, and it should be fertilized once a month during the growing season. The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It is hardy in zones 4 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Angelica Archangelica is prone to several pests and diseases, including aphids, leaf miners, and powdery mildew. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil, while leaf miners can be controlled with spinosad or Bacillus thuringiensis. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant, and by removing infected leaves.
Habitat
Angelica Archangelica is native to Northern Europe, including Iceland and Greenland. It grows in damp areas, such as meadows, marshes, and riverbanks. It prefers cool, moist conditions and can be found at elevations of up to 10,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Angelica Archangelica?
A: Angelica Archangelica has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems, respiratory infections, and menstrual cramps.
Q: Can Angelica Archangelica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Angelica Archangelica can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Is Angelica Archangelica toxic?
A: No, Angelica Archangelica is not toxic. However, the plant should not be consumed in large quantities, as it can cause photosensitivity in some people.
Q: How long does it take for Angelica Archangelica to mature?
A: Angelica Archangelica is a biennial plant, meaning it takes two years to complete its life cycle. It will produce foliage in the first year, and flowers and seeds in the second year.
Related Plants
- Angelica gigas
- Angelica sylvestris
- Angelica dahurica
- Angelica pubescens
References
- “Angelica Archangelica.” Plants for a Future, 2008, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Angelica+archangelica.
- “Angelica Archangelica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c475.
- “Angelica Archangelica.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9215/Angelica-archangelica/Details.
