Herb Garden Plants

Angelica archangelica (Umbelliferae)

Appearance: An imposing and dramatic plant which, given good growing conditions, attains up to 2 m (6ft6in) in height, with large green—white mophead flowers held aloft. Good for the back of borders where they can be striking.

Description: Angelica is a biennial plant, with a good clump of foliage forming in the first summer and dramatic flowers in the second, thereafter dying when the seed has set. By cutting back the growth in autumn/fall and preventing the flower heads from seeding, the plant can be maintained as a short—lived perennial.

Usage: Angelica is cultivated mainly for its green stems which can be candied and used in confectionery. A chunk or two cut at flowering time makes a good addition to stewed fruit, or it can be used in jam—making as a substitute, especially for rhubarb. However, every part of angelica is useful. The dried root (when infused) makes a stimulating tonic reputed to encourage a dislike for alcohol. The ground roots are used for sachets, and an oil derived from the root is used in liqueurs. The juniper—flavoured seed can be substituted for real juniper berries in the making of gin. Leaves are edible as a vegetable when cooked and served with butter, offering a spinach—like flavour.

History: In the past angelica was recommended for a wide range of ailments and legend tells us that in medieval times an angel ‘visited’ a monk, directing him to use this plant to alleviate the sufferings of victims of a plague — hence the specific name archangelica. Many herb garden information booklets aver that another derivative of the name may come from the fact that it comes into bloom close to the feast of the Archangel Michael. Whatever the provenance, it was used in religious rites for centuries. Long ago revered in cold climes such as Lapland, Greenland Iceland and Russia. Possibly because it gives a sensation of heat when eaten.

Cultivation: Angelica seed deteriorates quickly, so it is important to sow only from fresh seed in Spring. If this is not possible, store it in a fridge or freezer during winter and then use it for sowing in the spring in tiny pinches, thinning out all but the most robust plants when germination has taken place. Seedlings do not transplant well, do so only when they are very small. Plant out about 90 cms (3 ft) apart to allow the plants to develop freely.

Good rich loam is beneficial to all herb garden plants, otherwise growth may be restricted with poor colour. Angelica dislikes hot, humid climates and prefers to be where some shade is afforded every day.

Other uses: Leaves and stems in potpourri’s, use leaves as a bath additive, improves circulation and respiration and soothes digestion.

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