Description

Similar in appearance to the introduced species Queen Anne's lace, Angelica venenosa is also a member of the Carrot family, and is easily distinguishable by its thick, serrated compound leaves, and by its stems which are covered with fine white hairs towards their extremities, hence the common name "hairy angelica". The plants produce large, showy compound umbels (umbrella-shaped clusters) of small white flowers atop tall rigid stems that can grow to a height of 6'.

Cultivation

Hairy angelica is easy to grow and adaptable to a wide range of soil and light conditions. It is tolerant of open shade, but flower production will be at its best in full sun. It is found in open woods, prairies, on rocky slopes, and along stream margins. It will be a good performer in a rich, moist garden setting, and can be successfully combined with other tall summer bloomers such as Rudbeckia. The deep taproot makes Angelica venenosa particularly drought resistant and adaptable to poor soils. It self-seeds readily, making it a good choice for naturalizing large areas, where it will withstand competition from other herbs, or from grasses. Bloom times will vary from May to August, depending on geographic location. Zones 4-8

Propagation

Easily propagated from seed. Plants produce deep taproots, making them difficult to transplant.

Additional Notes

Angelica venenosa is excellent to have around for use in cut flower arrangements. Though some species of Angelica are edible, the roots of this one are highly toxic, as suggested by the genus modifier "venenosa", and should not be ingested.