Purple-Stemmed Angelica

Purple-Stemmed Angelica (Angelica atropurpurea)

Purple-Stemmed Angelica (Angelica atropurpurea) is a striking, clump-forming biennial or short-lived perennial known for its towering height, deep purple stems, and large, globe-like clusters of pale greenish-white flowers. With its bold architectural form and pollinator-friendly appeal, it is an excellent choice for wetland edges, borders, and native plant gardens.

Distinctive Features

Purple-Stemmed Angelica produces domed umbels of creamy white to pale green flowers in mid to late summer, attracting a variety of pollinators. Its robust, hollow stems develop a deep purple hue, providing striking contrast against its deeply divided, bright green foliage. This variety thrives in moist environments and contributes to biodiversity by supporting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Requires moist to wet, humus-rich soil; tolerates boggy conditions.
• Water: Regular watering; thrives in consistently damp conditions.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity levels with good air circulation.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-7, making it suitable for temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Wetland Gardens: Thrives in damp, marshy areas or rain gardens.
• Native Plantings: A great addition to meadows and naturalized landscapes.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
• Garden Borders: Adds vertical interest with bold stems and large flower heads.

Low Maintenance Care

Purple-Stemmed Angelica is a low-maintenance plant that provides dramatic garden interest.

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist; does best in damp conditions.
• Pruning: Remove spent flower heads to control self-seeding.
• Fertilizing: Apply compost or a balanced fertilizer in spring to support growth.
• Pest Resistance: Generally resistant to deer and rabbits.

Why Choose Purple-Stemmed Angelica?

Purple-Stemmed Angelica is valued for its striking stems, pollinator-friendly flowers, and suitability for wet conditions, making it an exceptional choice for naturalized and wetland gardens.

• Tall, Architectural Growth: Adds height and structure to landscapes.
• Pale Greenish-White Flowers: Provides a delicate contrast to deep purple stems.
• Thrives in Moist Conditions: Ideal for rain gardens, wet meadows, and pond edges.
• Pollinator Friendly: Supports a diverse range of beneficial insects.

For a dramatic, moisture-loving, and wildlife-supporting addition to any garden, Purple-Stemmed Angelica (Angelica atropurpurea) is an outstanding choice.