Angelica
Angelica tomentosa
Care
part shade
3–7ft tall
Jun-Aug
Yes
Root used in traditional food preparation
Moist riparian areas of the Sierra Nevada foothills and adjacent regions, 2000-4000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Angelica tomentosa in part shade, ideally in a location that mimics its native woodland habitat in California's coastal mountain ranges. This perennial herb has a taproot, so choose a spot with good drainage and space it adequately to accommodate its mature height of 3 to 7 feet. Plant in spring or fall to give it time to establish before the growing season.
After Planting
Water regularly during the first summer to help establish the plant, then gradually reduce watering as it becomes established. Angelica tomentosa blooms from June through August with attractive whitish or yellowish flower clusters, and you can leave these in place or prune them once flowering is complete. This is a moderate-care plant that will go dormant in winter - expect it to die back and regrow in spring, which is completely normal behavior.
Wildlife Supported
Insects
caterpillars feed on Angelica foliage April-August; multiple generations per year in California
pathogenic fungal relationship; affects plant vigor and spore production
visits umbelliferous flowers for nectar; scavenges insects on plants