Angelica Gigas
Contents
Description
Angelica Gigas, also known as Purple Parsnip, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Korea and can grow up to 6 feet tall. The plant produces a large umbel of purple-red flowers that bloom from July to August. The leaves of the Angelica Gigas are large, dark-green, and have a glossy finish. It is a popular plant among gardeners due to its striking appearance and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Angelica |
Appearance
The Angelica Gigas is a tall and robust plant with a deep purple-red hue. The stem of the plant is thick and hairy, and the leaves are large, glossy, and dark-green in color. The flowers of the Angelica Gigas are arranged in a large umbel, and each flower is made up of five petals that are purple-red in color. The overall appearance of the Angelica Gigas is striking and adds a pop of color to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
The Angelica Gigas requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips to take care of your Angelica Gigas:
- Water: The Angelica Gigas prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to help the plant thrive.
- Soil: The Angelica Gigas prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Mix compost or aged manure into the soil before planting.
- Sunlight: The Angelica Gigas prefers partial shade, so plant it in a spot that gets partial shade throughout the day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Angelica Gigas can grow in hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Angelica Gigas is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it is still susceptible to a few common problems:
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can damage the leaves of the plant. Use slug bait to control them.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can affect the leaves of the plant. Use a fungicide to control it.
- Root Rot: This disease can occur if the soil is too moist. Avoid overwatering the plant to prevent root rot.
Habitat
The Angelica Gigas is native to Korea and grows in mountainous areas. It prefers cool and moist environments and can tolerate partial shade. The plant is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes for its striking appearance and medicinal properties.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Angelica Gigas edible?
A: Yes, the Angelica Gigas is edible. The roots and stems of the plant are used in traditional Korean medicine and are also used as a flavoring in Korean cuisine.
Q: How do I propagate the Angelica Gigas?
A: The Angelica Gigas can be propagated by dividing the plant in the spring or fall. Dig up the root ball and separate it into smaller sections, making sure each section has a healthy stem and root system. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil.
Q: How long does it take for the Angelica Gigas to bloom?
A: The Angelica Gigas blooms from July to August, which is typically around 2-3 years after planting. However, the plant can take up to 4 years to bloom.
Q: Can I grow the Angelica Gigas indoors?
A: The Angelica Gigas prefers to grow outdoors in partial shade. It is not recommended to grow the plant indoors as it requires specific environmental conditions to thrive.
Related Plants
- Angelica archangelica
- Angelica atropurpurea
- Angelica dahurica
- Angelica sinensis
References
- “Angelica Gigas.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b527
- “Angelica gigas.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/20229/angelica-gigas/details
- “Angelica gigas.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/69292/
