Angelica Archangelica - Angelica

Growing Information: Grow in moist, rich soil in light shade, or full sun in cool climates. Mulch and irrigate if the weather gets hot and dry. Fertilize in spring and midsummer. To keep your original plant growing for another year, cut off the flower stalk. If it goes to seed, the plant will die but may self-seed.

Propagation: Let some seeds self-sow. Commercial seed may need pretreatment to germinate. Sprinkle seed on moist growing mix and leave the pots outdoors from fall to spring; cold helps them germinate better. Or put the seed in moist growing mix in the refrigerator for 6 weeks. Then move to a warm, bright spot. Plant seedlings in the garden when they're small to minimize root disturbance.

Possible Problems: Blast aphids with the garden hose or spray with insecticidal soap. In warm climates, discourage rot by planting in well-drained soil and light shade. Can't take hot summers.

Harvesting and Using: Cut young licorice-flavored flower stems to slice and candy or use with rhubarb in pie. Use angelica leaves and small sprigs in salads.

Related Herbs: Korean angelica (A. gigas) has red stems and flower buds, purplish foliage, and white flowers. A wild species, A. atropurpurea, is common in parts of the northeastern United States. It should never be eaten because it is easy to confuse its reddish stems with some very toxic plants.