Description
Garden Angelica (Angelica archangelica) is a striking and statuesque herb of the Apiaceae family, cultivated for centuries in European apothecary and kitchen gardens. Native to northern Europe and Scandinavia, it thrives in damp meadows and streambanks, and in the garden it favours moist, rich soils in dappled sun to partial shade. Its tall, hollow stems and bold, divided leaves lend dramatic presence, topped in summer with large greenish-white umbels that are highly attractive to pollinators.
Medicinally, Angelica archangelica has long been used as a warming, aromatic digestive aid, carminative, and circulatory stimulant, valued for easing colds, coughs, and sluggish digestion. The roots and seeds are especially used in herbal medicine, while the candied stems became a classic sweet and the aromatic roots flavour gin, Chartreuse, and other liqueurs.
Though technically biennial, Angelica often self-seeds and can naturalise in the right conditions, ensuring continuity in the garden. Its presence brings an old-world charm, blending beauty, pollinator support, and medicinal heritage.
