Growing Angelica: A Stately Native for Your Garden
If you’re looking for a plant that brings both architectural drama and native plant benefits to your garden, angelica might just be your perfect match. This impressive perennial forb has been quietly gracing North American landscapes for centuries, and it’s ready to do the same for your backyard.
What Makes Angelica Special?
Angelica is what botanists call a forb – essentially a flowering plant that doesn’t develop woody stems like shrubs or trees. Don’t let that technical term fool you though; this perennial packs plenty of visual punch. With its tall, sturdy stems topped by large, umbrella-like flower clusters (called umbels), angelica creates a striking focal point wherever it grows.
A True North American Native
One of angelica’s greatest strengths is its impressive native credentials. This plant calls virtually all of North America home, from the chilly reaches of Alaska and Greenland down through the lower 48 states. You’ll find native angelica populations thriving across an remarkable range of locations, including Alberta, Alabama, British Columbia, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Colorado, Prince Edward Island, Connecticut, Quebec, Delaware, District of Columbia, Yukon, Florida, Northwest Territories, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Labrador, and Newfoundland.
Why Your Garden (and Local Wildlife) Will Love Angelica
Choosing angelica for your landscape isn’t just about adding height and texture – though it certainly delivers on both fronts. As a native plant, angelica has evolved alongside local wildlife and fits naturally into existing ecosystems. The large, flat-topped flower clusters are particularly attractive to pollinators, making this an excellent choice for gardeners who want to support bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
Perfect Garden Companions
Angelica works beautifully in several garden styles:
- Native plant gardens: Combines naturally with other indigenous species
- Cottage gardens: Adds old-fashioned charm and vertical interest
- Naturalized areas: Perfect for low-maintenance, wildlife-friendly spaces
- Rain gardens: Many angelica species appreciate consistently moist conditions
A Word of Caution: Know Your Species
Here’s where things get a bit tricky. Angelica actually refers to an entire genus of plants, and there are numerous species within this group. While our data shows that angelica as a genus is native throughout North America, the specific growing requirements, size, and appearance can vary significantly between different species. Some angelicas prefer boggy conditions, others tolerate drier soils. Some reach towering heights of 6-8 feet, while others stay more compact.
Before adding angelica to your garden, it’s important to identify which specific species (such as Angelica archangelica, Angelica atropurpurea, or Angelica lucida) is native to your area and best suited to your growing conditions.
Growing Tips for Success
While specific care requirements vary by species, most angelicas share some common preferences:
- Soil: Generally prefer rich, moist, well-draining soil
- Light: Most do well in partial shade to full sun
- Water: Consistent moisture is usually appreciated
- Space: Give them room to spread – these aren’t compact plants
- Patience: As perennials, they’ll establish slowly but reward you with years of growth
The Bottom Line
Angelica offers the perfect combination of native plant benefits and garden-worthy appeal. Its impressive stature, pollinator-friendly flowers, and widespread native status make it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to create beautiful, ecologically beneficial landscapes. Just remember to do a bit of homework to identify which angelica species is right for your specific location and growing conditions.
Whether you’re designing a formal native plant garden or simply want to add some architectural interest to a naturalized area, angelica deserves a spot on your planting list. Your local wildlife – and your garden’s overall aesthetic – will thank you for it.
