Angelica capitellata, synonym Sphenosciadium capitellatum, commonly known as woollyhead parsnip or ranger’s buttons, is a stout perennial herb. It is native to montane meadows, streambanks, and wet areas in the mountainous regions of western North America, including eastern Oregon, central Idaho, northern Nevada, northern and central California, and Baja California. This plant typically grows in moist, rich soils and is often found at elevations from 4,000 to 10,000 feet. Woollyhead parsnip reaches up to 7 feet in height, with a robust, erect stem. The foliage is characterized by pinnately divided leaves with widely spaced leaflets. The inflorescence is a compound umbel, approximately 4 inches across, consisting of many small, densely clustered flowers that are white or occasionally purple-tinged. Flowering occurs from July to August, and the flowers are attractive to a variety of pollinators.

Woollyhead parsnip is valued for its distinctive foliage and unique flower structure, which add textural interest to naturalistic plantings and wildflower gardens. It is not commonly used in traditional landscaping but can be an intriguing addition to native plant gardens or restoration projects. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist soil and can tolerate partial shade, though it thrives in full sun. While not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot if drainage is poor. Woollyhead parsnip is not known for being invasive but should be planted with care to ensure it does not outcompete less vigorous native species in restoration settings.CC BY-SA 4.0