Angelica, Official (Angelica archangelica)
Angelica (Angelica archangelica) is a captivating addition to North Carolina's gardens, with its towering presence, intricate flowers, and historical significance in herbal medicine. Whether as an ornamental accent or a botanical marvel, it invites us to explore the depths of our natural world while offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of wellness and tradition.
Angelica (Angelica archangelica) is a captivating addition to North Carolina's gardens, with its towering presence, intricate flowers, and historical significance in herbal medicine. Whether as an ornamental accent or a botanical marvel, it invites us to explore the depths of our natural world while offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of wellness and tradition.
Angelica (Angelica archangelica) is a captivating addition to North Carolina's gardens, with its towering presence, intricate flowers, and historical significance in herbal medicine. Whether as an ornamental accent or a botanical marvel, it invites us to explore the depths of our natural world while offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of wellness and tradition.
Where does it like to grow?
Angelica, scientifically known as Angelica archangelica, is a magnificent herb that thrives in cool, northern climates. In North Carolina, it finds its niche in temperate, shaded environments, often growing near streams, in woodland edges, and in rich, well-drained soil.
What plants does it like to grow with?
Angelica often shares its habitat with other shade-loving plants like Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense), Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum spp.), and Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata). These companions create a picturesque woodland garden, enhancing the biodiversity of North Carolina's landscapes.
What pollinator species are attracted to it?
Angelica's striking, globe-like umbels of flowers are a beacon for pollinators. Bees, including bumblebees and native solitary bees, as well as butterflies and hoverflies, are frequent visitors, seeking nectar and inadvertently promoting pollination.
Is it a host plant for any moths or butterflies?
While Angelica is not a primary host plant for moths or butterflies, its nectar-rich flowers provide sustenance for these winged beauties, contributing to the overall ecosystem.
What color is its flower?
Angelica's flowers are typically a pale greenish-white or cream color, exuding an elegant charm amidst its lush, fern-like foliage. Their unique appearance adds a touch of enchantment to the shaded woodland garden.
How tall does it get?
Angelica archangelica is a statuesque herbaceous biennial that can tower at impressive heights, often reaching 3 to 7 feet in its second-year flowering stage. Its presence in the garden adds a vertical dimension that commands attention.
When does it bloom and for how long?
Angelica typically blooms in the early summer, from June to July. The flowering period may extend for several weeks, creating a captivating display of botanical beauty in the cool, shaded corners of the garden.
What type of soil does it like?
Angelica prefers rich, moist, and well-drained soils with ample organic matter. It appreciates soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged, making it well-suited for woodland and damp garden settings.
How much sunlight or shade does it need?
Angelica thrives in partial to full shade. Its adaptability to varying light conditions makes it a versatile choice for shaded garden spots and woodland areas, where it lends an air of mystery and elegance to the landscape.