Angelica is a commonly used herb in Scandinavia. In addition, it grows naturally in Iceland, Greenland, and Russia. Less common here, angelica can be grown in cooler regions of the United States where it can reach heights of up to 6 feet (2 meters)! This begs the question, should angelica plants be pruned, and if so, how do you prune angelica herbs?
Does Angelica Plant Need Trimming?
Other names for angelica archangelica include norwegian angelica, holy ghost, wild celery, and garden angelica. It is an old herb that has been used for its healing and enchantment abilities. To avoid evil, it was said.
The essential oils found in all parts of the plant have many uses. The seeds are pressed, and the resulting oil is used to flavor foods. Not only do Lapps eat angelica, but they also use it medicinally and even as a substitute for chewing tobacco. Norwegians crush the roots for use in bread and the Inuit use the stalks as you would celery.
As mentioned, angelica can be quite tall, so for this reason alone, some judicious pruning may be advisable. While angelica plants are often grown for their sweet roots, their stems and leaves are often harvested, which is more or less the angelica harvest. So, how do you harvest angelica weed?
Pruning Angelica
Angelica pruning can involve the entire plant. The young stems are used to decorate cakes, the leaves can be used in aromatic pillows, the roots can be cooked in butter and/or with tart berries or rhubarb to reduce acidity, and they can be combined.
In the first year of angelica growth, this member of the Apiaceae produces leaves that can only be harvested. Leaf pruning should be done in late spring or early summer.
The soft stems of angelica should wait until the second year to be harvested and then flattened. Cut the stems in mid to late spring when they are young and tender. Another good reason to prune the stalks of your angelica is for the plant to continue producing. Angelica plants that are allowed to blossom and set seed will perish.
If you are pruning angelica for the roots, do it in the first or second fall for the more tender roots. Wash and dry the roots well and store them in an airtight container.
Unlike many other herbs, angelica loves moist soil. In nature, it often grows along ponds or streams. Water the plant well and it will reward you with years of harvest.
