Purplestem angelica (Angelica atropurpurea)

Also known as: Masterwort, High angelica

The plant you are referring to is the Purplestem Angelica (Angelica atropurpurea). Native to eastern North America, it thrives in moist woodlands and along riverbanks. Despite its several-year lifespan, it produces flowers only once. Historically, this plant held ceremonial significance for some Native American tribes.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Purplestem angelica

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1.8 m

Spread

60 cm to 1.8 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

20 cm

Flower Color

White Green

Images of Purplestem angelica

Quickly Identify Purplestem angelica

Identify Angelica atropurpurea by its tall stature, purplish hollow stems, and large, lobed leaves. The stems can reach heights of 6-8 feet. The plant produces small white to greenish flowers in large, rounded umbels.

Scientific Classification of Purplestem angelica

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Apiales

Family

Umbellifers

Genus

Angelica

Species

Purplestem angelica

Planting and Growing of Purplestem angelica

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Purplestem angelica?

Angelica atropurpurea prefers consistently moist soil but not waterlogged. Each watering session should involve providing approximately 500 ml of water, ensuring a thorough soak that reaches the plant's roots without creating standing water. The aim is to keep the soil evenly moist throughout the growing period.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Purplestem angelica?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Partial sun, full shade with filtered light mimics its natural habitat. It ensures balanced growth, lush foliage, and a successful flowering phase, promoting biodiversity and plant health.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Purplestem angelica?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Angelica atropurpurea thrives best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. This range provides the ideal conditions for optimal growth and development of the plant's various physiological processes.

What Soil is Best for Purplestem angelica?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Peat soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Angelica atropurpurea thrives in soil that offers good drainage. Well-draining soil ensures that the roots do not sit in water, preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth. The soil should be enriched with organic matter to provide necessary nutrients. This richness supports the plant's robust growth and enhances its resilience against environmental stress. While good drainage is key, the soil should retain moisture consistently. Maintaining a balance between moist and well-drained soil is ideal for optimal plant health and vigor.

How to Fertilize Purplestem angelica?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Angelica atropurpurea, it's important to use a balanced formula at half the recommended strength. Typically, you would apply about 1 tablespoon per gallon of water for liquid fertilizers.

How to Prune Purplestem angelica?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by gathering sharp pruning shears and a pair of gloves to protect your hands. Inspect the plant for any dead or damaged stems that require removal. Start pruning by cutting these unwanted parts back to the base or a healthy node, encouraging new growth. Focus on thinning the inner growth to allow better air circulation within the plant. This involves selectively removing some of the older or crowding branches. Aim to create a balanced structure that supports light penetration, enhancing the plant's overall health. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Purplestem angelica plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Choose fresh, healthy seeds of Angelica atropurpurea for better germination rates. Check for any signs of mold or damage before proceeding to planting.

Use a mix of high-quality potting soil and sand for good drainage. Ensure the mixture is well-aerated to support the germination and growth of seedlings.

Cut the root mass into sections with a sharp knife, ensuring each section has several buds. Replant immediately to reduce stress and promote growth.

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How to Repot Purplestem angelica plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Recognize it's time to repot Angelica atropurpurea when the roots outgrow the current container, poking through the drainage holes, or the plant's growth visibly halts. If you notice the soil no longer retains moisture or becomes compacted, these are telltale signs for repotting. Spring and autumn present the optimal conditions for less stress on the plant.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has sufficient drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A terracotta pot is an excellent choice for its breathability, aiding in moisture regulation and protecting roots from suffocation.

Opt for a well-draining organic potting mix. This will provide essential nutrients and prevent water stagnation, fostering a robust root system. A mix of peat, perlite, and aged compost ensures good aeration and drainage, which is crucial for preventing root diseases.

Toxicity of Purplestem angelica

Is Purplestem angelica toxic to humans?

All components of purplestem angelica are imbued with harmful substances known as furanocoumarins, which can lead to serious problems even upon mere skin contact. This toxin causes intense inflammation, particularly when the skin is exposed to sunlight, resulting in an excruciating rash. The level of toxin present in a particular species or plant directly correlates with the severity of the reaction. When substantial quantities are ingested, this inflammation can lead to extreme gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, painful cramping, diarrhea, and a rash in the oral cavity and throat. It is crucial to keep children away from this plant. If you or another individual inadvertently comes into contact with a member of this plant family, ensure to cleanse your skin thoroughly with a grease-cutting soap prior to sun exposure.

Is Purplestem angelica toxic to cat?

Purplestem angelica presents a moderate toxicity hazard to cats, especially when significant amounts of the plant's sap or juice are consumed. Cats that come into contact with purplestem angelica may exhibit symptoms of physical unease or distress. To safeguard pets, it is essential to prevent their access to this plant and to promptly consult a veterinarian if poisoning is suspected, thereby reducing any possible health risks.

Is Purplestem angelica toxic to dog?

Purplestem angelica presents a mild toxicity risk for dogs. Although the plant is not extremely toxic, consuming it in significant amounts can result in poisoning. The main concern is related to the sap or juice present in purplestem angelica, which carries toxic compounds. Dogs may experience poisoning from chewing on or eating parts of purplestem angelica that contain this sap. Symptoms of toxicity can manifest as gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting and diarrhea, and may escalate to more serious reactions based on the quantity ingested and the individual dog's sensitivity. It is vital for dog owners to supervise their pets and restrict access to purplestem angelica, particularly if their pet has a habit of chewing on plants. In any suspected poisoning scenario, seeking immediate veterinary care is crucial to ensure rapid intervention and help minimize any negative effects.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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