Apiaceae
Angelica: Aromatic Plant
Angelica
Angelica thrives in partial shade with consistently moist, humus-rich soil. It is well-suited to cool climates and tolerates frost well. Water regularly to prevent the soil from drying out. Provide afternoon shade in hotter regions to protect from leaf scorch. Fertilize monthly during the growing season. Most species are biennial, flowering in their second year before setting seed and dying.
Every 3 days
Partial shade
-20° - 28°C
50% - 80%
Categories
What is Angelica?
Angelica (Angelica) is a medium-care plant from the Apiaceae family. Angelica is a genus of approximately 90 species of aromatic herbs in the family Apiaceae, native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. These biennial or short-lived perennial plants can grow up to 2.4 m (8 ft) tall, producing large umbrella-like flower clusters (umbels) in white, gree...
Angelica grows up to 2.4m, spread of 120cm, watering every 3 days, -20°C – 28°C, 50–80% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many popular species, Angelica is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Angelica?
TLDR: Angelica needs Partial shade, watering every 3 days, and temperatures between -20-28°C with 50-80% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Angelica?
Keep soil consistently moist — water every 2–3 days or as needed to prevent drought stress. Angelica does not tolerate dry conditions and naturally grows near water sources.
How Much Light Does Angelica Need?
Prefers partial shade to full sun (4–8 hours of direct light). In hot climates, afternoon shade is essential to prevent leaf scorch and keep roots cool.
What Is the Best Soil for Angelica?
Deep, loamy, organically rich soil with good moisture retention. Slightly acidic to neutral pH (4.5–7.0). Avoid compacted or waterlogged soils.
What Pot Should You Use for Angelica?
Large container (minimum 40 cm diameter and depth) with adequate drainage holes. Use heavy terracotta or stone pots to stabilize the tall plant and prevent tipping.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
What Is Angelica and Where Does It Come From?
Angelica is a genus of approximately 90 species of aromatic herbs in the family Apiaceae, native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. These biennial or short-lived perennial plants can grow up to 2.4 m (8 ft) tall, producing large umbrella-like flower clusters (umbels) in white, green, yellow, purple, or pink during summer. Prized for centuries for both medicinal and culinary applications, angelica has a distinctive musky, licorice-like aroma and flavour.
How Big Does Angelica Grow?
TLDR: Angelica can reach up to 2.4m tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
2.4m
Spread
1.2m
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Deciduous
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Edible
Can be consumed
Aromatic
Pleasant fragrance
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Medicinal Uses
- Digestive aid and relief of intestinal cramps and bloating
- Respiratory tonic for coughs, bronchitis, and colds
- Anti-inflammatory leaf compresses for external use
- Traditional support for menstrual regulation and menopausal symptoms
- Used in aromatherapy and relaxation practices
Culinary Uses
- Young candied stems used in baking and confectionery decoration
- Roots and fruits flavour liqueurs (Chartreuse, Benedictine), gin, and perfumes
- Young leaves in salads, soups, herbal teas, and stews
- Seeds as a fennel substitute in cooking
- Stems eaten as a vegetable in Faroe Islands and Iceland
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Angelica?
TLDR: Angelica is susceptible to 6 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease caused by various fungi species including Erysiphe, Podosphaera, Oïdium, and Leveillula. It affects over 10,000 plant species worldwide. The disease thrives in warm, dry climates with high humidity and appears as a distinctive white powdery coating on plant surfaces.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails are mollusks that feed on plant tissue, causing irregular holes in leaves and damage to young seedlings. They are most active at night and in moist conditions, leaving characteristic silvery slime trails. These pests can quickly devastate gardens, especially during wet seasons.
Leafminers
Leafminers are the larvae of various insects including flies, moths, sawflies, and beetles that tunnel between leaf surfaces, creating distinctive serpentine trails or blotchy patches. While primarily cosmetic, severe infestations can weaken plants by reducing photosynthesis capacity and making them susceptible to secondary infections.
Meaning & Symbolism
Symbolizes protection, healing, and divine inspiration. In European folklore, angelica was believed to ward off evil spirits and plague, and was used in sacred rituals and protective charms. Its name alludes to angelic and heavenly associations.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | ⚠️ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ⚠️ |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |
| Wild Lettuce | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |