My garden, alive in my pocket.
Track my garden
🌿

Angelica

Angelica archangelica · Apiaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant angelica: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
June to August, white-green flowers in umbels
Mature size
1.5 to 2.5 m tall × 0.6 to 1 m wide
Growth
Fast (biennial plant)
Hardiness
Down to -15 °C
Origin
Northern Europe and wetland areas
Soil type
Rich, moist, well-drained
Exposure
Partial shade to full sun

Care

Watering

Angelica appreciates constantly moist soil. Water regularly during dry periods, especially during the first year. Avoid waterlogging that promotes root rot. In temperate climates, natural rainfall is generally sufficient.

Exposure

Plant angelica in partial shade or full sun, depending on your climate. In hot and dry regions, partial shade is preferable to maintain soil moisture. In cooler and wetter areas, direct sun promotes healthy growth.

Soil and preparation

Prepare rich soil with organic matter, slightly moist and well-drained. Incorporate compost or well-decomposed manure before planting. Angelica tolerates slightly acidic to neutral soils.

Fertilizing

Enrich the soil with compost in spring. A balanced fertilizer application at the start of the growing season is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen fertilizer, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.

Pruning and maintenance

Remove spent flowers to extend the plant's life. With this biennial, no drastic pruning is necessary. Allow a few umbels to form in the second year for natural reseeding if desired.

Pests and diseases

Angelica is generally robust. Watch for slugs and snails that enjoy young shoots. Crown rot can occur with excess moisture or poor drainage; improve soil aeration.

Did you know?

True angelica was long venerated in the Middle Ages as a "magical plant" capable of protecting against plague and evil spells. Its Latin name refers to the archangel Michael, giving it a spiritual aura. Its candied stems remain a traditional French culinary specialty, particularly in Niort.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

Add this plant to my garden →

Plants from the same family

Browse all plants →

Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.