Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso - Description
Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso, commonly known as the Brewer's Angelica or the Seabeach Angelica, is a flowering plant species that is native to North America. The plant belongs to the Apiaceae or Umbelliferae family and is part of the genus Angelica. This species is a perennial herb that is characterized by its tall stalks, large leaves, and clusters of small white flowers that bloom in the summer months.
General Appearance
The Brewer's Angelica is a robust plant that grows up to 2-3 meters in height. It has an erect and hollow stem that is 1-2 cm in diameter with longitudinal ridges. The leaves of the plant are large and compound, measuring 30-60 cm wide, and divided into 3-5 leaflets. The flowers of the plant are white or greenish-white in color and are arranged in umbels that are 5-20 cm in diameter. The plant typically blooms from June to August.
Origin
The Brewer's Angelica is native to the coastal regions of North America, including Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California. The plant can be found in wet habitats such as marshes, streambanks, and estuaries.
Uses
Traditionally, Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso has been used as food by indigenous tribes in North America. The plant has a sweet, fragrant taste, and the young shoots, leaves, and roots are edible. Additionally, the plant is used for medicinal purposes, especially by indigenous people. The roots of the plant are used to treat various ailments such as colds and coughs, fever, and headaches. The plant is also used as a natural insect repellent and as a flavoring agent in alcohol production.
Light Requirements
Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso thrives in full sun to partial shade. This plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day for optimal growth. However, it can also tolerate some shade, especially during the heat of the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant requires cool temperatures for optimum growth. It prefers temperatures ranging from 50 to 70°F (10-21°C). In hotter locations, it will require protection from the sun during the hottest parts of the day. In colder regions, it is important to protect the plant from frost since it can cause significant damage to it.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso are quite specific. It prefers soils that are rich, moist, and well-drained. It is also important that the soil be slightly acidic. This plant likes soils that have a pH level ranging from 5.0 to 6.0. If the soil is too alkaline, it will create poor growth conditions for Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso.
It is best to prepare the soil thoroughly before planting. This can be done by adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil. Make sure to mix it well to ensure that the nutrients are evenly distributed throughout the soil. Additionally, it is important to regularly fertilize the plant throughout its growing season to provide it with the necessary nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.
Cultivation Methods
Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso, commonly known as Brewer's angelica, requires full sun to grow properly. Hence, it is preferable to plant Brewer's angelica in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant grows well in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It is essential to prepare the soil before planting by adding compost or aged manure to enhance the soil structure and nutrient content.
Watering Needs
The Brewer's angelica plant requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. The frequency of watering depends on the prevailing weather conditions, soil moisture content, and the stage of growth. During the plant's early stages of growth, it is essential to keep the soil evenly moist. However, once established, the plant can tolerate some drought. It is essential to avoid watering the leaves as this can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Brewer's Angelica is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization to thrive. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium applied every six to eight weeks during the growing season. Nitrogen is essential for vegetative growth, while phosphorus supports the development of flowers and fruit, and potassium promotes overall plant health.
Pruning
Brewer's angelica plant requires minimal pruning, mainly to remove dead or diseased plant material. It is essential to prune the plant after the flowering season to maintain its shape and promote fresh growth. Additionally, pruning helps to improve air circulation and access to sunlight, which reduces the risk of fungal infections. Regular harvesting of the leaves promotes fresh growth and enhances the plant's medicinal properties.
Propagation of Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso
There are two main methods for propagating Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso, which are by seed and division.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the most common method employed for Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso. The seeds should be collected when they are fully matured and have turned brown in color. The seeds should then be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place until ready to use.
The seeds should be sown in a well-drained potting mix and kept moist until germination. The ideal temperature for germination is between 15°C and 20°C. The seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots once they have developed their first set of true leaves, and then grown on until they are large enough to be planted out in their final position.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is the second method that can be employed for Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri (Gray) Di Tomaso. This method is particularly useful for established plants that have grown too large for their current position, or for plants that require rejuvenation.
To propagate by division, the plant should be lifted from the ground and the root system carefully divided into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a good portion of the root system attached. Each section should be trimmed of any dead or damaged foliage and replanted in its final position.
Propagation by division should be carried out during the dormant season, either in the early spring or late autumn, as this will give the plant time to establish before the next season of active growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri
Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri, commonly known as Brewer's angelica, is a tall, herbaceous plant in the Apiaceae family. Like all plants, it is prone to a variety of diseases and pests that can damage and even kill the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and suggested ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a powdery white coating on the leaves and stems of the plant, and can cause stunted growth and leaf drop. To manage powdery mildew, remove and dispose of infected plant material, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides containing potassium bicarbonate or neem oil.
2. Septoria leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots with yellow halos on the leaves, which can eventually lead to leaf drop. To manage septoria leaf spot, remove and dispose of infected plant material, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides containing copper or sulfur.
3. Root rot: This bacterial or fungal disease attacks the roots of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage root rot, remove and dispose of infected plant material, improve soil drainage, and avoid overwatering.
Pests
1. Aphids: These small insects suck the sap out of the plant, causing distorted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, use a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the plant, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and encourage natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
2. Spider mites: These tiny, sap-sucking pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves, as well as webbing. To manage spider mites, remove and dispose of infected plant material, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and increase humidity around the plant to discourage the pests.
3. Slugs and snails: These mollusks can devour young Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri plants. To manage slugs and snails, handpick them from the plant or use baits containing iron phosphate.
By being vigilant and taking preventative measures against disease and pests, you can help ensure the health and vitality of your Angelica arguta Nutt. var. breweri plant.
