Angelica ampla A. Nels.
Angelica ampla A. Nels., commonly known as the giant angelica or big-leaf angelica, is a biennial or perennial herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically in the western United States from California to Montana, including parts of Canada.
Common Names
The plant is known by various names, including the giant angelica, big-leaf angelica, alpine angelica, and green-sierra angelica.
Uses
The giant angelica has long been valued among Native American tribes for its medicinal properties. The plant's roots, stems, and leaves were traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments such as colds, flu, respiratory infections, and digestive problems.
Aside from its medicinal uses, the giant angelica is also utilized in culinary and decorative purposes. Its young, tender shoots and leaves are consumed in salads, soups, and stews, and the plant's large, fragrant blooms add natural beauty to garden landscapes.
General Appearance
The giant angelica is a robust plant that can reach up to 3 meters in height. The plant's stem is smooth, thick, and hollow and can grow up to 10 cm in diameter. Its leaves are large, deeply divided, and compound with toothed edges, growing up to 75 cm in diameter. The giant angelica's flowers are arranged in clusters, forming large, umbrella-shaped inflorescences that can produce thousands of seeds.
Overall, Angelica ampla A. Nels. is a fascinating plant, valued for its health benefits, culinary uses, and ornamental beauty. With its impressive size and striking appearance, this giant angelica always leaves a lasting impression.
Typical Growth Conditions of Angelica ampla A. Nels.
Angelica ampla A. Nels., commonly known as the American Angelica, is a perennial herb that is native to the Western and Northwestern regions of North America.
Light Requirements
The American Angelica requires partial shade to full sun for optimal growth. It can tolerate full shade, but it may cause stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers cooler temperatures and can grow in areas with an annual temperature range of 5°C to 20°C. In areas with high temperatures, the plant may go dormant or die off during the summer months.
Soil Requirements
The American Angelica prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range for the growth of the American Angelica is between 6.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not tolerate drought conditions.
It can grow in wetlands or near streams as it requires consistently moist soil. However, during extended periods of flooding, the plant may face stress-related issues, including root rot and leaf yellowing.
Cultivation of Angelica ampla A. Nels.
Angelica ampla A. Nels. is a tall perennial plant that prefers to grow in wet and moist areas. It's commonly found in the mountain ranges of North America, from Utah to Montana, and is known to withstand cold temperatures and frost.
The plant grows best in partial shade and requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It's essential to use a high-quality potting mix if growing it in a container so that the plant receives the necessary nutrients.
Watering Needs
Angelica ampla A. Nels. prefers moist soil, and regular watering is necessary to keep the soil consistently damp. However, it's vital to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and cause damage to the plant. The frequency of watering depends on the location, temperature, and humidity level, but typically, two to three times a week should suffice.
Fertilization
Angelica ampla A. Nels. requires fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It's best to fertilize the plant during its growing season, which is usually in the early spring or summer. Over-fertilization can hinder the plant's growth, so it's essential to use fertilizer sparingly and follow the instructions carefully.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Angelica ampla A. Nels. However, removing any dead or wilted leaves can help improve airflow and sunlight penetration, leading to healthier growth. If the plant has become too tall, the stems can be cut back to reduce its height.
Propagation of Angelica ampla A. Nels.
Angelica ampla A. Nels., commonly known as the giant angelica, can be propagated through both seed and vegetative means.
Seed Propagation:
Seed propagation is the easiest way to propagate Angelica ampla A. Nels. The seeds should be collected when they are mature and then sown in a well-drained soil mixture. The best time to sow the seeds is in early spring. The seeds should be sown at a depth of approximately 1/16 inch deep, and then watered using a sprayer to avoid disrupting the soil. The seeds should then be covered with a light layer of soil and kept moist until germination. Germination can take anywhere from 7-30 days.
Vegetative Propagation:
Angelica ampla A. Nels. can also be propagated through vegetative means. The most common methods of vegetative propagation are through rhizome divisions or stem cuttings.
Rhizome Division: Rhizome division involves dividing the plant's rhizomes into manageable sections and then planting them in a well-drained soil mixture. The best time to divide the rhizomes is during the plant's dormant season. Each rhizome division should have a shoot and an adequate root system. The divided rhizomes should then be planted at a depth of approximately 1 inch deep, and then watered using a sprayer to avoid disrupting the soil.
Stem Cuttings: Stem cuttings involve taking a 4-6 inch long stem from the plant and then planting it in a well-drained soil mixture. The cutting should be taken during the plant's growing season and should have at least two nodes. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in the soil. The cutting should then be covered with a plastic bag to retain moisture and kept in a warm, but not too sunny location. New roots and shoots should appear within 3-4 weeks, and the cutting can then be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management of Angelica ampla A. Nels.
Angelica ampla A. Nels., commonly known as Big Angelica, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to the Rocky Mountains and the western region of North America. Like any other plant, the Big Angelica can be affected by diseases and pests that can reduce its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It causes small, circular or irregular spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown or black. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and stems and destroy them. Apply a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow-orange spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown or black. It can also affect the stems and flowers of the plant. To manage rust, remove the infected parts of the plant and destroy them. Apply a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They stunt the growth of the plant and can cause the leaves to curl up and die. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Alternatively, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
Mites: Mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellow or brown spots on the leaves. They can also cause the leaves to become distorted and reduce the plant's yield. To manage mites, spray the plant with a miticide or insecticidal soap. Alternatively, introduce natural predators such as predatory mites.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are gastropods that feed on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can also cause damage to the roots and reduce the plant's growth. To manage slugs and snails, handpick them from the plant and destroy them. You can also create barriers around the plant using copper tape or crushed eggshells to prevent them from reaching the plant.
By managing the diseases and pests that affect Angelica ampla A. Nels., you can ensure that your plant grows healthy and yields a bountiful harvest. Regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation can help to prevent the spread of the problem and allow for timely management.
