Angelica Archangelica Wild Celery seeds

Description

Angelica archangelica, commonly known as wild celery or garden angelica, is a striking biennial plant from the Apiaceae family. It is native to temperate and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and parts of North America.

Height: It can grow up to 6-8 feet tall.

Appearance: It has hollow, ridged stems, large bright green bipinnate leaves, and globe-shaped clusters (umbels) of greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the second year.

Flowers: The plant produces fragrant, umbrella-shaped flower clusters in the summer.

Uses: All parts of the plant—roots, leaves, seeds, and stems—are used in cooking, herbal medicine, and the production of liqueurs like Chartreuse and Vermouth. Its roots are particularly valued for medicinal purposes.

Where to Plant:

Climate: Angelica thrives in temperate climates. It is frost-hardy and can tolerate cold environments, especially in areas that mimic its native subarctic habitat.

Hardiness Zones: Best suited for USDA hardiness zones 4-9.

Location: Plant it in a location that gets partial shade to full sun. It prefers some protection from intense afternoon heat but needs enough sunlight for robust growth.

Soil: Angelica prefers well-drained, moist, and fertile soil, rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5).

Growth and Care Advice:

Sowing and Propagation:

Seeds: Angelica is typically grown from seeds, which should be sown in late summer or early fall. The seeds need a cold stratification period (exposure to cold for several weeks) to germinate properly.

Direct Seeding: Plant seeds directly into the soil in the fall or early spring, barely covering them with soil.

Germination: Germination can take a few weeks, so patience is essential. Fresh seeds have a higher germination rate.

Watering:

Angelica likes consistently moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.

Fertilizing:

Before planting, work organic compost or well-rotted manure into the soil. Supplement with balanced fertilizers (e.g., 10-10-10) during the growing season if needed, but avoid over-fertilizing, as it can reduce the aromatic properties.

Spacing:

Give plants plenty of space to grow. Plant them about 2-3 feet apart to allow airflow and prevent fungal diseases.

Pruning:

Angelica is a biennial, meaning it will flower and set seed in its second year before dying. To prolong the plant’s lifespan and encourage foliage growth, cut off flower stalks in the first year. If you want seeds, allow the plant to flower in the second year.

Mulching:

Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Pest and Disease Control:

Angelica is relatively pest-resistant but may occasionally be affected by aphids, slugs, or fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Ensure proper spacing and avoid waterlogged soil to minimize these risks.

Harvesting:

Leaves: Harvest young leaves in early summer for culinary use.

Seeds: Harvest the seeds after the plant has flowered and they have ripened.

Roots: The roots can be harvested in the fall of the plant’s second year, just before it dies off.

Companion Planting:

Angelica pairs well with other herbs and plants that enjoy similar conditions, such as mint, parsley, and dill. It can also act as a beneficial companion plant, attracting pollinators like bees and beneficial insects.

Angelica archangelica is a hardy, rewarding plant, offering a range of culinary, medicinal, and aesthetic benefits. Proper care and attention to its needs will ensure healthy growth and successful harvests.

Packet: 20 Seeds

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