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How to Grow Angelica?

This giant-size herb - it can grow up to 2 metres in height - originated in Northern Europe and was brought to England in the Middle Ages. It is one of a number of herb plants which have scented leaves, and was a favourite in Elizabethan herb gardens. The leaves, stalks, roots and seeds were all put to some use, and the root is still used today for flavouring wines, and for liqueurs such as Chartreuse. The leaves also make a refreshing tea which has a tonic effect: the stems are well known in their candied form used for cake decoration. The whole flavour of the plant is warming and aromatic.

Growing Angelica Outdoors

When the soil has warmed up in early June it is worth sowing Angelica seeds in drills about 2 and half cms deep. Give the drills a good sprinkling of compost. Angelica is one of the few herbs which prefer a moist, shady position; it can be difficult to grow. If possible, buy a few plants from a nurseryman and allow them to seed themselves.

After sowing the ground must be kept moist if the large, rather hard seeds are to germinate. When the seedlings start to grow, thin them out to at least 15 cms apart. Angelica is a biennial, so you will probably have to wait until the second year before cutting leaves and stems. When the plants are well grown, cut the stems for candying or for cooking with rhubarb to diminish the tart flavour. Use the leaves for infusing a pick-me-up tea, and chop the young, tender stems for adding to salads.

Growing Angelica Indoors

Although Angelica soon grows too tall for a window-box, it is easier to start the seed off indoors. A sunny window-sill in the kitchen is ideal for this purpose. Sow the seeds in March or April in Jiffy pots using a good seed-sowing compost: space the large seeds well apart - two or three to a pot are sufficient - and keep warm and moist until they germinate. In June transfer the seedlings to a moist, shady position outside.

Health Benefits of angelica

See here for the health benefits of angelica.

For Flower-arranging

Angelica is often cultivated in gardens to provide an attrac­tive border plant. It has tall, thick stems with bright-green leaves and very small, white-green flowers. It will mix well with many flower arrangements.

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