Overview of Angelica wheeleri S. Wats.
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats., also known as Wheeler's angelica, is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant in the Apiaceae family. It is native to the western United States, particularly in the states of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Wheeler's angelica," named after the American explorer and botanist, George Montague Wheeler.
Description of the Plant
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. has a robust, tall, and erect stem (up to 6 feet tall) which is purplish at the base and often glaucous. Its leaves are pinnate, with a variable number of leaflets (usually 9-13) which are lanceolate to elliptic in shape and sharply serrated edges. Its inflorescence is a compound umbel, about 3-10 inches in diameter and comprised of numerous white to greenish-white flowers.
Uses of Angelica wheeleri S. Wats.
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. has a variety of traditional medicinal uses among Native American tribes. Its roots were used as a digestive aid, to treat respiratory diseases and urinary tract infections, and as a poultice to relieve aches and pains. The plant was also used during spiritual ceremonies for purification and as a means to communicate with the spiritual world. Today, it is primarily used for ornamental purposes in gardens, as it is a visually striking and unique addition to any landscape.
Growth Conditions for Angelica wheeleri S. Wats.
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. is a perennial herb with a thick and fleshy root that's found in the southwestern part of the United States. This plant can grow to a height of 20-60 cm. Its yellowish or greenish-white flowers bloom from May to August, while its brownish-black fruit ripens from July to September.
Light Requirements
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. prefers partial to full sun exposure. It is typically found in open woodlands or rocky slopes, where it receives direct sunlight for most of the day. If grown for cultivation, it should be placed in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.
Temperature Requirements
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. thrives in a warm and dry climate, typical of its natural habitat. It is accustomed to a temperature range of 20-30°C during the day and 5-15°C at night. The plant can tolerate mild frost but cannot withstand prolonged periods of freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. prefers a well-drained and fertile soil that's rich in organic matter. This plant thrives in a slightly alkaline soil, with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. It can tolerate sandy or clay soils but cannot grow in waterlogged or poorly drained soils. The soil must also be able to retain moisture to prevent the plant from drying out.
Cultivation Methods for Angelica wheeleri S. Wats.
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. is a hardy perennial that grows well in partial shade to full sun in well-draining soil. It can be propagated from seed or root cuttings. The ideal time to plant the seeds or root cuttings is during the fall or early winter when the temperature is cooler. The seeds or root cuttings should be planted about an inch deep in the soil and kept moist until germination or establishment.
Watering Needs for Angelica wheeleri S. Wats.
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. prefers to grow in soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Therefore, it is essential to water the plant regularly to ensure that the soil is not drying out. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot and other problems. Generally, watering once or twice a week should be enough for the plant to thrive.
Fertilization for Angelica wheeleri S. Wats.
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. benefits from periodic feeding with a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizing the plant with a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help improve its growth and health. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid overfertilizing, as excessive nutrients can damage the plant's roots and foliage.
Pruning for Angelica wheeleri S. Wats.
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. does not require regular pruning, but it can benefit from occasional trimming to keep it in shape and remove any damaged or dead leaves or stems. Pruning should be done in the fall or early winter when the plant is dormant. It is essential to use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases and to make clean cuts that heal quickly.
Propagation of Angelica wheeleri S. Wats.
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats., commonly known as Wheeler's Angelica, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Apiaceae family. Propagation is the process of growing new plants from existing plants. There are several methods of propagating Angelica wheeleri, including:
Seed propagation
Angelica wheeleri can be propagated through seeds. The first step to seed propagation is to collect mature seeds from the plant. The seeds must be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool, dry location until planting. Sow the seeds in a seedling tray filled with well-draining potting soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water thoroughly. Place the seedling tray in a location with bright, indirect light and a consistent temperature of around 70°F to 80°F. Seedlings will typically emerge within 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, transplant them into individual pots.
Root division
Another method of propagating Angelica wheeleri is through root division. This method involves separating the roots of an established plant and replanting them to create new plants. The best time to divide the roots is in the spring when new growth begins to emerge. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to carefully separate the roots and ensure that each division has several healthy shoots and roots. Replant the new divisions in a pot or directly into the garden soil and water thoroughly.
Cuttings
Angelica wheeleri can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cut a stem from an established plant, ensuring that it has several nodes and is at least 4-6 inches long. Remove the leaves from the lower two-thirds of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining potting soil and water thoroughly. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment and place it in a location with bright, indirect light. Once the cutting forms roots, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden soil.
Propagation of Angelica wheeleri is relatively simple, and by using any of the above methods, new plants can be easily grown for personal use or commercial purposes.
Disease Management for Angelica wheeleri S. Wats.
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but certain diseases can still affect it. One common disease is powdery mildew, which can form a white or gray coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and to avoid overwatering. Applying a fungicide may also be helpful.
Another disease that can affect Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. is root rot, which is caused by fungi that thrive in wet soil. To prevent root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering and to ensure that the soil is well-draining. If root rot occurs, it is important to remove and dispose of any infected plant material and to sterilize any tools used on the plant to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Angelica wheeleri S. Wats.
Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. is also relatively pest-resistant, but there are a few pests that can affect it. One common pest is aphids, which are small, soft-bodied insects that can cluster on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage aphids, it is important to frequently inspect the plant and to remove any infested leaves or stems. Spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be effective in controlling aphids.
Another pest that can affect Angelica wheeleri S. Wats. is spider mites, which are tiny, spider-like mites that can cause yellowing and speckling on the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, it is important to keep the plant well-moistened and to avoid over-fertilizing. Spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or applying a predatory mite can also be effective in controlling spider mites.
