- Introduction
- Angelica archangelica (Angelica archangelica)
- Angelica gigas (red angelica)
- Angelica sylvestris (Angelica sylvestris)
- Angelica sinensis (Chinese angelica)
- Angelica atropurpurea (American angelica)
- Conclusion
1. introduction
Angelica, also known as angelica, is a medicinal plant that stands out not only for its impressive appearance in the soil of any perennial garden, but also for its many healing properties. Angelica has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat ailments such as bronchitis, gastrointestinal complaints and flatulence. Its roots, rich in bitter substances and essential oils, make it a powerful remedy for a wide range of ailments. Angelica is also used in cooking as a spice or in the form of angelica balm and tincture, making it a valuable plant for health and household use.
In this article, we'll guide you through the world of Angelica by taking a closer look at different species such as Angelica archangelica (medicinal angelica), Angelica gigas (red angelica), Angelica sylvestris (wood angelica) and others. You will learn how to care for these plants in your garden, from sowing to weeding, and what specific conditions they need to thrive, be it the right soil or the perfect plant spacing. We'll also highlight the unique healing properties of each species, from their role in combating forgetfulness to their antibacterial properties. Whether you grow it as a medicinal herb, for decoration or to enrich your kitchen, Angelica offers many facets to discover.
2. Angelica archangelica (Angelica archangelica)
Description
Medicinal angelica, also known as Angelica archangelica, is an impressive plant that can reach a height of 1.2 to 3 meters in its life cycle. This deciduous perennial flowers only once in its lifetime and dies after flowering. The leaves of the medicinal angelica are particularly striking, as they have long stalks and are arranged alternately on the stem. Most of the leaves are two to three-pinnate, with a light green blade that is often 60 to 90 centimeters long. The flowers are greenish-white and form in hemispherical double umbels that can reach a diameter of up to 15 centimetres.
Use
The root of the medicinal angelica, known as Angelicae radix, is rich in bitter substances and essential oils and is valued in naturopathy. It is used in the form of alcoholic extracts or teas to treat loss of appetite, mild stomach and intestinal cramps as well as bloating and flatulence. Its carminative and antimicrobial effect supports the secretion of gastric juice and pancreas. In addition, the essential oil of the roots is also used in folk medicine against insomnia and externally against rheumatism and neuralgia, although it should be noted that it can have a toxic effect in large quantities.
Location and care
Angelica archangelica thrives best in damp meadows and on banks, preferably on wet, occasionally flooded, nutrient-rich clay soil. When cultivated in the garden, a sunny to semi-shady location should be chosen. The soil should be deep, moist and nutrient-rich, ideally prepared with a peat-free compost. Regular watering is essential, especially if the soil is dry. Regular weeding of young plants is important to ensure a low-competition start. For bushy growth, the top of the angelica shoot can be cut back when young.
3. Angelica gigas (red angelica)
Description
Angelica gigas, also known as red angelica, is a magnificent perennial that impresses with its dark red, almost purple-colored flower umbels. This plant reaches a height of around 1.3 meters and spreads up to one meter. The large, spherical buds, from which hemispherical flowers develop in summer, are particularly striking. The flowering period extends from July to September, during which the plant is a real eye-catcher in the garden with its intense colors.
Use
The red angelica is not only an ornamental plant, but also a useful bee pasture. Its flowers provide a rich source of nectar for insects. In addition, the root extracts and flower stalks of the plant are edible and are used in the production of liqueurs and as a spice for jams and chutneys. The stems can even be candied to add a spicy note to dishes.
Location and care
Angelica gigas prefers a sunny to semi-shady location with well-drained, humus-rich and nutrient-rich soil that should be moist to fresh. The plant tolerates frost well and requires regular, thorough watering to help it survive dry periods. A planting distance of 100 to 150 centimetres is recommended to give the plant enough space to develop. In the first year, red angelica forms a rosette of stems, followed by tall, hollow, purple-red stems in the second year. Propagation is by self-sowing or by sowing fresh seeds directly in the garden.
4. angelica sylvestris (wood angelica)
Description
The forest angelica, also known as Angelica sylvestrisis an impressive perennial that is widespread in Europe. It reaches heights of 50 to 150 centimetres and can grow up to 200 centimetres in rare cases. This plant is characterized by its dark green, almost black leaves, which can take on an attractive purple-red hue. Its flowers are a delicate pink color and open from dark red buds, giving it a particularly aesthetic appearance.
Use
Although angelica is rarely used as a medicinal plant, it has many uses in the kitchen. The young, aromatic leaves and stems are often used as a spicy addition to salads, soups and stews. They can also be dried and used as a spice for sauces. The fleshy taproots are also known for adding a bitter note to liqueurs and schnapps. The roots can also be used as a tea to relieve digestive problems and coughs.
Location and care
Angelica sylvestris prefers a sunny to semi-shady location and thrives best in fresh to moist, well-drained soil. It is an ideal plant for natural gardens and fits perfectly into plantings that offer it enough space to develop. This wood angelica is also an important food source for many insects and birds, making it a valuable plant for biodiversity. It is fairly undemanding in terms of care as long as the soil does not dry out. Pruning close to the ground in spring can help to keep the plant healthy and strong.
5. angelica sinensis (Chinese angelica)
Description
The Chinese angelica, also known as Dong Quai or Angelica sinensisis an important plant in traditional Chinese medicine. This perennial herbaceous plant grows to a height of around 40 to 100 centimetres. Its striking, purple-green, striped stem is branched at the top. The main root of the plant is cylindrical and branches out into many succulent lateral roots, all of which are strongly aromatic. The leaves, which are arranged alternately on the stem, consist of a leaf sheath, petiole and leaf blade. The flowering period in its native China extends from June to July, and the plant bears greenish-white flowers in terminal double umbels.
Use
Angelica sinensis has long been used in Chinese medicine to harmonize the blood and improve circulation. These properties make it particularly valuable in the treatment of menstrual irregularities and anaemia. The roots of the plant, which featured prominently in the oldest Chinese medicinal herb books such as the Shennong ben cao jing, are known to promote female fertility. In current Chinese pharmacopoeias, the drug is recommended for a variety of ailments, including wilting-yellow complexion for blood-void, dizziness, palpitations, menstrual cramps, empty-cold-abdominal pain, dry-stool intestinal constipation, wind-damp-rheumatism, accidental injuries and ulcers. It is usually taken in the form of tea or capsules.
Location and care
The Chinese angelica thrives particularly well in damp meadows and riverside areas and prefers to grow at altitudes of 2500 to 3000 meters. It is native to the Chinese provinces of Sichuan, Gansu, Hubei, Shanxi and Yunnan. A loose soil with good drainage and rich humus is ideal for cultivating this plant. Seedlings should be protected from direct sunlight, but adult plants can tolerate some sun. Regular watering is important to keep the plant healthy and vigorous.
6. angelica atropurpurea (American angelica)
Description
The American angelica, also known as Angelica atropurpureaThe greenish to purplish stems of this herbaceous plant are impressive and can reach a height of 130 to 180 centimetres. This perennial herbaceous plant forms a short taproot and is known for its strong fragrance. Its leaves are mainly arranged in the lower part of the stem and are divided into leaf sheath, leaf stalk and leaf blade. The upper leaves are characterized by a long, broad and somewhat inflated greenish-purple leaf sheath.
Use
Angelica atropurpurea is valued both in the kitchen and in traditional medicine. The young stems and petioles can be eaten raw or cooked, although when peeled they taste similar to celery and are often used in salads. The taproots, stems and leaf stalks are also candied. Medicinally, the root drug was used by the indigenous peoples of North America to promote its healing properties.
Location and care
The plant prefers moist locations and thrives particularly well on banks or in damp meadows. When cultivating in the garden, a location should be chosen that offers both sun and partial shade and has fresh, nutrient-rich and well-drained soil. Regular watering is essential to keep the plant healthy.
7. conclusion
Traveling through the world of Angelica plants reveals a remarkable diversity and potential applications ranging from culinary delights to traditional healing methods. The fascination with Angelica, be it Angelica archangelica with its purifying powers, Angelica gigas adding color to the garden, or Angelica sinensis deeply rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, reflects the multi-faceted contributions of this plant family to human health and biodiversity. Their cultivation and use demand admiration for their beauty as well as respect for their therapeutic properties, making them indispensable treasures in gardens and homes.
This article not only provides in-depth insights into the different species of angelica and their specific needs in the garden, but also highlights their many medicinal properties and uses that make them rise above simple garden plants. The consideration of their cultural significance and the recommendations for care serve as a guide for every garden enthusiast. May this journey through the world of Angelica plants serve not only as a guide to their cultivation, but also as an inspiration to explore and appreciate the myriad facets of this extraordinary plant genus.
Further questions and answers about angelica
1 What is angelica used for?
Angelica is valued in folk medicine for its analgesic and circulation-promoting effects. It is used to treat sore muscles and tension, as well as having a diaphoretic, stomachic, catarrh and antispasmodic effect.
2 For which complaints is angelica used externally?
The essential oil of angelica, also known as Angelicae aetheroleum, is used externally to treat rheumatism and neuralgia. Internally, it can also help with insomnia.
3. can angelica be eaten?
Yes, the leaves and stems of angelica can be eaten fresh, thanks to their high content of essential oils they have an intense aroma. Both roots and leaves can also be used dried to season dishes.
4. is angelica root poisonous?
Angelica is considered slightly poisonous, so it should not be consumed in large quantities. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers in particular should avoid eating the plant.
Magyar