Summary
Angelica sylvestris, also known as wild angelica or wood angelica, is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the carrot family and is known for its tall, umbrella-shaped clusters of small, white or green flowers and large, lobed leaves. Angelica sylvestris is a tall plant that can reach heights of up to 6 feet (2 meters) and is often used as a border plant or in naturalized areas. It is easy to grow and is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and climates. Angelica sylvestris prefers partial shade to full sun and is drought-tolerant once established. The plant is generally hardy and low maintenance, but it can be prone to pests such as slugs and snails. Angelica sylvestris is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used traditionally to treat a variety of ailments. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and to determine the safety and effectiveness of using it medicinally.
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Wild Angelica (Angelica sylvestris) is a tall, striking plant that can be found growing in damp meadows and along the banks of streams and rivers throughout Europe and Asia. It is a member of the carrot family (Apiaceae) and is closely related to other well-known plants such as parsley, celery, and fennel.
The plant can reach a height of up to 6 feet and has large, umbrella-shaped clusters of white or greenish-white flowers that bloom from June to August. The stem of the plant is hollow and has a purplish-red color, while the leaves are large and lobed.
Wild Angelica has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. The root, stem, and leaves of the plant are all used and contain compounds such as angelicin, which is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. The plant has been used to treat conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, and respiratory problems.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Wild Angelica is also used in culinary applications. The stems of the plant can be candied and used as a decoration for desserts, while the seeds can be used as a spice. The young leaves of the plant can also be used in salads and as a herb.
Despite its many uses, Wild Angelica should be used with caution as it can be toxic in large doses. Pregnant women should avoid using the plant as it can stimulate menstrual bleeding. It is also important to note that Angelica sylvestris should not be confused with other plants such as Angelica archangelica, which is commonly known as Garden Angelica and is considered to be safe to consume.
In addition to its medicinal and culinary uses, Wild Angelica also has a rich cultural and spiritual history. The plant was believed to have protective powers and was often used in traditional folk magic and rituals. It was also thought to have the power to ward off evil spirits and was used to make wreaths and garlands that were worn by young women to protect them from evil.
The plant is also known for its medicinal properties for respiratory issues and colds. Wild Angelica root is used to make a tea which is helpful in relieving bronchitis, asthma and other respiratory problems. The root is also used to make a syrup which is helpful in treating coughs and sore throats. The plant is also used to make an infusion which is helpful in treating fever and flu symptoms.
One of the most interesting things about Wild Angelica is its ability to attract beneficial insects to the garden. The flowers of the plant are very attractive to a wide variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. This makes it a great plant to include in a garden designed to attract and support beneficial insects.
In addition to its medicinal, culinary, cultural and spiritual uses, Wild Angelica also has a wide range of ecological benefits. The plant is known to be an excellent indicator of high-quality, undisturbed wetlands, and it is often used to monitor the health of these habitats. The presence of Wild Angelica can indicate good water quality, as the plant is sensitive to pollution and typically does not thrive in degraded wetland ecosystems.
The plant is also an important food source for many animals and insects. The seeds are eaten by a variety of birds, while the leaves and stems are browsed by mammals such as deer, elk, and moose. The flowers of the plant are also an important nectar source for a wide variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and moths.
Wild Angelica is also a popular plant among butterfly and moth enthusiasts. The larvae of several species of moths and butterflies feed on the leaves of the plant, including the Angle Shades, the Garden Carpet, and the Small Angle Shades. This makes it an important plant for supporting butterfly and moth populations.
In conclusion, Wild Angelica (Angelica sylvestris) is a valuable plant that has a wide range of ecological benefits. It is an excellent indicator of high-quality, undisturbed wetlands, and it is an important food source for many animals and insects. It is also a popular plant among butterfly and moth enthusiasts and it is a great plant to include in a garden designed to attract and support beneficial insects. It is important to use it with caution and not confuse it with other plants such as Angelica archangelica, and also check with a doctor if you are pregnant before using it.
Video
Wild Angelica filmed by the side of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal on the 30th July 2022.
Music credits
Guess Who by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100214
Artist: http://incompetech.com/
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