Purplestem Angelica

Angelica atropurpurea

Physical Characteristics

Angelica atropurpurea is a PERENNIAL growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Newfoundland to Ontario and Minnesota, south to Delaware, Illinois and Iowa.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Young shoots and leaf stalks - raw or cooked[55, 105, 177]. When boiled in two lots of water they form a vegetable that strongly resembles celery. They can be peeled and eaten in salads or blanched and cooked like asparagus[183]. The stems can also be candied and used as a sweetmeat[2]. Root, leafstalks and stems - candied[177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Carminative Diaphoretic Emmenagogue Sedative Stomachic Tonic A tea made from the leaves is carminative and stomachic[222]. It is also used in the treatment of colds, rheumatism etc[222]. The seed and roots can also be used and have a stronger effect[222]. The plant has similar properties to angelica, A. archangelica, though it is inferior since it is less aromatic[4]. The root is carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, sedative, stomachic and tonic[257]. An infusion has been used in the treatment of fevers, colds, flatulent colic and other stomach disorders, obstructed menses and as a general tonic for women[257]. Externally it has been used as a gargle for sore throats and mouths and as a poultice for broken bones, swellings etc[257]. It has also been used, both internally and externally, as a treatment for rheumatism[257].

Known Hazards

All members of this genus contain furocoumarins, which increase skin sensitivity to sunlight and may cause dermatitis[238].