Purplestem Angelica

(Angelica atropurpurea)

Purplestem Angelica (Angelica atropurpurea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Angelica atropurpurea, commonly known as Purplestem Angelica, is a deciduous perennial herb that thrives in wet meadows, marshes, and riparian woodlands of the Northeastern and North Central United States, as well as Southern Canada. It can reach up to 6 feet (180 cm) in height, with a distinctive erect, branching stem that is purple, smooth, hollow, and sturdy. The plant features large, compound leaves and produces showy, umbrella-like umbels of white to greenish flowers, each potentially having up to 40 branches and spanning up to 8 inches (20 cm) across, blooming from late spring to early summer.

Purplestem Angelica is valued for its architectural form and the striking contrast of its purple stems against the green foliage. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, rain gardens, and as a border plant in moist garden areas. The stalks are edible and have a flavor reminiscent of celery. This plant prefers consistently moist soils and can tolerate a range of drainage conditions. It does best in full sun to part shade. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to leaf spots and rust. Gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant can cause skin irritation on contact, especially in sunlight.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 3-10 feet
  • Width: 2-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wet meadows, marshes, and riparian woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Dark-Purple Alexanders , Great Angelica , American Angelica , High Angelica , Purple Alexanders , Purple Angelica , Purple-Stemmed Angelica , Masterwort , Wild Masterwort , Angélique Noire-Pourprée

Scientific Names: Angelica atropurpurea , Archangelica atropurpurea , Angelica atropurpurea var. occidentalis , Angelica laurentiana , Angelica atropurpurea var. atropurpurea , Selinum atropurpureum

GBIF Accepted Name: Angelica atropurpurea L.