Overview of Angelica kingii
Angelica kingii (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose, also known as King's angelica or Great angelica, is a biennial or perennial herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family. This plant species is mainly found in the intermountain and arid regions of western North America, ranging from Colorado, California, Utah to Wyoming.
Appearance
The plant can grow up to a height of 3 meters, with a width of approximately 1.5 meters. The stem of Angelica kingii is sturdy, hollow, and branched, with a purplish tint. The leaves are large, usually measuring up to 120 centimeters long and 50 centimeters wide. The leaves are composed of several leaflets, with toothed margins, and a dark green hue. The flower heads are usually white or pinkish, approximately 50 centimeters wide, with multiple umbels.
Uses of Angelica kingii
The plant has been used traditionally by various Native American tribes in its natural range for various medicinal purposes, including the treatment of respiratory ailments, digestive disorders, and headaches. Angelica kingii is also used in the production of cosmetics. The seeds of Angelica kingii have also been used to create herbal drinks, while the roots can be used for seasoning food.
The plant is also regarded for its ornamental value, and it is cultivated in gardens and parks. Due to its immense size, the plant is best suited for large landscapes.
Additionally, the root of Angelica kingii is collected commercially for the extraction of essential oil used for its fragrance in perfumes and medicines such as cough syrup.
Light Requirements
The plant Angelica kingii (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. It grows well under direct sunlight and can tolerate moderate shade. However, excessive shade may result in stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Angelica kingii (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose thrives in cool and moist conditions. It can withstand a wide range of temperatures, from subzero temperatures in winter to high temperatures in summer. However, it prefers moderate temperatures between 10°C to 20°C for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant Angelica kingii (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It grows well in loamy, sandy, or rocky soils that are slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. The plant also prefers moist soils and can tolerate occasional droughts. However, waterlogged soils should be avoided as they can cause root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation Methods
The Angelica kingii, also known as King's angelica, is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to North America, specifically found in the western region of the United States and northern Mexico. The plant can be cultivated in full sun or partial shade, in soils with good drainage. It is best to plant the Angelica kingii in the fall, as this allows ample time for its root systems to establish before the hot summer months.
The plant can also be propagated via seed or division, although seeds may take up to a year to germinate, while division can be done in the spring or fall. When propagating via division, ensure that the new plant has ample space to grow, with each division consisting of at least three shoots that have their respective roots.
Watering Needs
The Angelica kingii is a relatively drought-resistant plant and can thrive in soils with little to no moisture. However, regular watering is necessary to enable the plant to produce its distinctive clusters of white flowers during the summer months. Ensure that the soil is well-drained but constantly moist during the growing season. Reduce watering in the fall to encourage dormancy during the winter months.
Fertilization
Angelica kingii requires little to no fertilization as it prefers to grow in soils with low to moderate fertility. Fertilization can lead to rapid growth and a weaker plant structure, leading to floppiness and unattractive foliage. If fertilization is deemed necessary, apply a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer in the spring, just as the plant resumes growth.
Pruning
Angelica kingii requires minimal pruning, although it is essential to remove any stems that may have died during dormancy. In the fall, after the plant has died back, cut the stems near the ground level. This allows for new growth in the coming seasons. If the plant becomes too large and cumbersome, it can be pruned back in the spring before the new growth appears.
Propagation of Angelica kingii (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose
Angelica kingii (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose is propagated through seed or root cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Angelica kingii can be sown directly outdoors in fall or spring. The seeds are small, black, and should be planted 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in well-draining soil. It is important to keep the soil evenly moist until germination, which can take 2-3 weeks.
If starting seeds indoors, use a seed starting mix and sow the seeds about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Keep the soil moist and warm, around 70°F. Once the seedlings have grown 2-3 true leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Root Cuttings
Angelica kingii can also be propagated through root cuttings. This method is best done in fall or early spring, while the plant is dormant. Cut a 2-3 inch section of a thick root and plant it horizontally in a pot or directly in the ground. Cover the cutting with 1/2 inch of soil and keep it moist.
After a few weeks, new growth should start to emerge from the cutting. Once the new growth has become established, the new plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease Management
The Angelica kingii (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose plant is susceptible to a range of diseases, including fungal infections such as powdery mildew and rust. To manage these diseases, it is important to ensure good plant hygiene by removing any dead or infected plant material immediately. Additionally, avoiding overhead watering and providing proper ventilation can reduce the risk of fungal infections. In severe cases, fungicides may be necessary, but they should only be used as a last resort.
Pest Management
Like many other plants, Angelica kingii is prone to pest infestations, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can damage the plant by sucking the sap and causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage pest problems, the first step is to monitor the plants regularly and identify the pest type early on. In some cases, simply washing the plant with a strong stream of water can be sufficient to remove the pests. For severe infestations, insecticidal soaps or oils can be effective, but care should be taken to ensure that the product is safe for use on the specific plant species. Biological control measures such as introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings can also be used.
