Angelica Capitellata

Description

Angelica Capitellata, commonly known as the mountain angelica, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to the Himalayan region and can be found in Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Tibet. The plant has a strong, pleasant odor, and its roots are used for medicinal purposes. It grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has large, green leaves with a serrated edge. The flowers of Angelica Capitellata are white or greenish-white and bloom in the summer.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Angelica Capitellata has large, green leaves that can grow up to 60 centimeters long and 30 centimeters wide. The leaves are divided into three to five leaflets that have a serrated edge. The stem of the plant is hollow and can reach up to 1.5 meters in height. The flowers of Angelica Capitellata are white or greenish-white and bloom in the summer. The plant produces small, black fruits that are used for medicinal purposes.

Care Guide

Angelica Capitellata is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers moist soil and partial shade, but it can also tolerate full sunlight. The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. Here are some tips for taking care of Angelica Capitellata:

Water

Angelica Capitellata prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

Angelica Capitellata does not require fertilization, but you can add compost to the soil to improve its nutrient content.

Soil

Angelica Capitellata prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

Sunlight

Angelica Capitellata can grow in full sunlight or partial shade, but it prefers partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

Angelica Capitellata can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Angelica Capitellata is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by powdery mildew or leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant is not overcrowded, and avoid overhead watering.

Habitat

Angelica Capitellata is native to the Himalayan region and can be found in Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Tibet. It grows in moist, shady areas such as forests, meadows, and riverbanks.

Question and Answer

Q: What are the medicinal properties of Angelica Capitellata?

A: Angelica Capitellata has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments including digestive disorders, respiratory infections, and skin diseases. The root of the plant contains essential oils, coumarins, and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.

Q: How do I propagate Angelica Capitellata?

A: Angelica Capitellata can be propagated by seed or division. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds in the fall or early spring. To propagate by division, dig up the plant in the spring or fall and separate the root clumps.

Q: Can Angelica Capitellata be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Angelica Capitellata can be grown in containers. Use a large container with well-draining soil and make sure to water the plant regularly.

Q: How often should I harvest the roots of Angelica Capitellata?

A: The roots of Angelica Capitellata can be harvested in the fall or early spring. It is recommended to harvest the roots every three to four years to allow the plant to regenerate.

Related Plants

Here are some plants that are related to Angelica Capitellata:

• Angelica Archangelica
• Angelica Gigas
• Angelica Polymorpha

References

• “Angelica Capitellata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c815.
• “Angelica Capitellata.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:841319-1.
• “Angelica Capitellata.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2635391.