California Angelica
Angelica californica
Care
part shade
very low
8–8ft tall
Jun-Aug
Yes
North Coast from Sonoma County to Mendocino County, below 1500 ft elevation, in riparian woodlands and coastal scrub
Care Guide
Planting
Plant California Angelica in part shade, ideally in a spot that mimics its native habitat on dry, low-elevation slopes. While soil type isn't specified in available data, choose a location with good drainage since this plant thrives in extremely low to very low water conditions. Space according to its mature height of 8 feet, and plant in spring or early fall to give the plant time to establish before extreme weather.
After Planting
Water weekly during your first summer to help establish the plant, then transition to infrequent watering as it matures - this is a drought-tolerant native that actually prefers dry conditions once established. Expect white flowers to bloom from June through August. The #1 mistake people make is overwatering; resist the urge to coddle this plant, as it evolved to thrive on California's minimal summer rainfall.
Visit Calscape for more information about California Angelica
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Brush rabbit is a Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Larvae feed on Angelica and related Apiaceae; multiple generations Apr-Sep
Caterpillars utilize Apiaceae family plants including Angelica; late spring through summer
Parasitoid wasps visit flowers for nectar; support for beneficial insect populations
Mammals
Herbaceous foliage consumed during growing season
Foliage browsed opportunistically, especially in spring and early summer when tender growth available