Overview of Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern
Angelica venenosa, also known as greenway angelica or Makino's angelica, is a biennial or perennial herb belonging to the family Apiaceae. This plant is native to Japan and can be found in moist forests, mountains, and valleys.
Appearance of Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern
The greenway angelica typically grows up to 1-2 meters in height with a thick stem and large leaves that can reach up to 30cm in length. The leaves are alternate, pinnate or bipinnate, and consist of 3-7 leaflets with coarsely serrated margins. The plant produces spherical, white to pale yellow flowers that are arranged in umbels with up to 10 rays. The flowers are followed by small, oval-shaped fruits that are about 2-5mm long.
Uses of Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern
Angelica venenosa has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a medicinal herb for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and analgesic properties. It is also believed to treat headaches, joint pain, and menstrual disorders. The plant has potential in the pharmaceutical industry as a source of new drugs due to its bioactive compounds such as coumarins and flavonoids.
However, this plant should not be consumed as it is highly toxic and can cause severe poisoning, leading to gastrointestinal and nervous system symptoms, respiratory distress, and even death if ingested in large quantities. Hence, caution must be taken while handling this plant and it is advised not to consume it in any form.
Light Conditions
Angelica venenosa prefers to grow in an area with low to medium shade levels. However, they can also tolerate full sun exposure as long as the soil remains moist.
Temperature Conditions
The plant is well adapted to temperate regions and can tolerate high and low temperature ranges. The ideal temperature range for Angelica venenosa growth is between 10°C and 25°C. However, the plant can also survive in temperatures as low as -5°C in winter and as high as 35°C in summer.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained moist soil with a slightly acidic or neutral pH ranging from 5.0 to 7.0. Angelica venenosa can grow in a wide range of soils, including loam, clay and sandy soils. It requires sufficient nutrients, including nitrogen, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus, for optimal growth. However, it is sensitive to high salt concentrations in the soil and needs regular watering to maintain moist soil conditions.
Cultivation of Angelica Venenosa
Angelica venenosa, commonly known as Hairy Angelica, has been found in Hawaii's Kauai Island and is a native plant. Since it is a native plant, it is relatively easier to cultivate Angelica venenosa. The plant prefers loamy soil with excellent draining properties. For optimal growth, a neutral soil pH is ideal.
Watering Needs of Angelica Venenosa
Angelica venenosa thrives in moist soil conditions. Therefore, regular watering is essential to ensure the plant does not become dehydrated. When watering, ensure the soil is moistened evenly. Avoid overwatering since this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Angelica Venenosa
Angelica venenosa is not a nutrient-demanding plant. However, to encourage optimum growth, you can use a balanced plant fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. During the growing season, you can apply fertilizer once every month. However, avoid over-fertilizing the plant since this can lead to a salt buildup that can damage the plant's roots.
Pruning of Angelica Venenosa
Pruning is crucial in keeping Angelica venenosa healthy and controlling its spread. Deadheading, which involves removing dead flowers, can encourage an extended blooming period. Additionally, pruning can be useful in controlling the plant's height and reducing the spread. You can use shears to carefully remove dead or diseased leaves and stems. Ensure the tools are sterile to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern.
Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern. is a perennial plant native to South America and is commonly known as "Hoja de San Pablo" or "Venenosa." This plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments such as blood pressure, stomach disorders, and rheumatism.
The plant can be propagated using different methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern. produces seeds once the flowering period is over. Collect the seeds and clean them from any debris or pulp. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing to promote germination. The seeds should be sown in a seedling tray or directly in the soil. The ideal time to sow the seeds is during the spring or early summer when the temperature is between 20 to 25°C. Ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. The seedlings should emerge within 2-4 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern. can also be propagated using vegetative methods, such as stem cuttings or division.
Stem Cuttings: Take stem cuttings from the mature plants during the growing season. The stem cuttings should be at least 10 cm long and have at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves, and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone. Plant them in a well-draining potting mix, and keep them in bright, but indirect light. The cuttings should root within 2-4 weeks, and they can be transplanted to individual pots once they have established roots.
Division: Divide mature plants during the dormant season. Carefully dig out the plant and remove the soil to expose the roots. Separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a good root system. Plant the sections in well-draining soil and keep them in a shaded area until the plants re-establish themselves.
Overall, Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern. is an easy plant to propagate, and it can be propagated using various methods. With a little care and attention, you can have a garden filled with this beautiful and medicinal plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern.
Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern., commonly known as the Hawaiian angelica, is a small shrub that grows in damp and shady places under trees in Hawaii. It is a plant that requires minimal maintenance and care, but it is still prone to some diseases and pests that can affect its growth and survival.
Common Diseases
The Hawaiian angelica is susceptible to fungal diseases, such as rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Rust is identifiable by yellow or orange spots on the plant’s leaves, while powdery mildew manifests as a white powdery coating on the leaves. Leaf spot appears as small yellow spots with dark borders on the leaves.
To manage these diseases, ensure proper sanitation by removing infected parts of the plant and disposing of them. Avoid overwatering the plant, as wet foliage can promote fungal growth. Consider applying fungicides to prevent the spread of diseases, but be sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines closely.
Common Pests
Aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs are common pests that can attack the Hawaiian angelica plant. Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Spider mites are tiny and almost invisible until they cause the yellowing and dropping of leaves. Mealybugs, on the other hand, produce a cottony covering on the plant, often accompanied by sticky residue.
To control these pests, regularly inspect the plant and treat them promptly with insecticides. Consider introducing natural enemies of these pests, such as ladybugs and lacewings, to the garden. Washing the leaves with water can also help to dislodge and remove these pests.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper care, and maintenance will help prevent diseases and pests that affect the growth and survival of Angelica venenosa (Greenway) Fern. Regular inspections and prompt treatment can help to minimize the spread of these diseases and pests. If the damage is severe, consider seeking assistance from a professional garden or plant care expert.
