Angelica

(Angelica archangelica)

This is one of the tallest and decorative of herbs, reaching a height of 6ft.

It requires semi-shade and a fairly rich soil with ample moisture.

It is a biennial and dies once it has flowered. It can be kept as a semi-perennial by removing any flowers before they open but it is better to sow fresh seed each year to give a continuous supply.

It self sows freely but can also be propagated by sowing seed in late summer nor by root division.

Harvesting

Cut leaves as they are required during early summer. The stems should be cut before the plant flowers.

Uses

The leaves, used either fresh or dried, can be used to make a tisane (an infusion of leaves, as in herbal teas). The stems are usually candied and used for decorating cakes and to flavour jams.