Brewer's angelica (Angelica breweri)

Also known as: Wild Parsnip, Brewer's Angelica

Brewer's angelica thrives in high-altitude mountain environments due to its hardy nature and unique adaptations. The plant features robust compound leaves and hollow stems, which support its survival in these challenging conditions. Its deep root system allows it to tap into nutrient reserves in less fertile soils and maintain stability against strong winds. Additionally, its small, cream-colored flowers form distinctive spherical clusters, enhancing its resilience and visual appeal in the wild.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Brewer's angelica

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

60-100 cm

Spread

Not typically characterized by a crown diameter as it is an herbaceous plant.

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

Approximately 0.5-1 cm for individual flowers within the umbel.

Flower Color

White or greenish-white

Images of Brewer's angelica

Quickly Identify Brewer's angelica

Angelica breweri can be identified by its large, hollow stem, compound leaves with multiple leaflets, and umbrella-like clusters of small white or greenish flowers.

Scientific Classification of Brewer's angelica

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Apiales

Family

Umbellifers

Genus

Angelica

Species

Brewer's angelica

Planting and Growing of Brewer's angelica

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 2 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 Brewer's angelica?

For Angelica breweri, each watering session should ensure that the soil is thoroughly moistened but not waterlogged, aiming for approximately 250 milliliters of water. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings to mimic its natural high-altitude environment.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Brewer's angelica? ›

What should I do if my Brewer's angelica is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Brewer's angelica? ›

How to save an overwatered Brewer's angelica? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Brewer's angelica?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Angelica breweri prefers partial sun, receiving about 4 to 6 hours of indirect sunlight. This balance helps the plant avoid stress from extreme light levels while ensuring sufficient energy for growth.

What is the best light level? ›

How to achieve ideal lighting? ›

What benefits come from ideal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Brewer's angelica?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Angelica breweri thrives best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F because this range mimics the plant's native habitat conditions. At these temperatures, the plant is able to efficiently perform photosynthesis, leading to optimal growth and development. Consistency within this temperature range also minimizes stress on the plant, allowing for uninterrupted metabolic activity and healthy foliage.

What Soil is Best for Brewer's angelica?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Angelica breweri thrives best in well-draining soils. Proper drainage is crucial as it prevents water from stagnating around the roots, which can lead to root rot. This drainage ensures the plant receives adequate oxygen at the roots, supporting its robust growth. The plant prefers soils rich in organic matter. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure enriches the soil's nutrients, promoting healthier foliage and more vigorous growth. It also aids in moisture retention without waterlogging. Angelica breweri requires consistent moisture, though the soil should not be soggy. Maintaining moderate moisture levels supports the plant’s uptake of essential nutrients and helps sustain its growth during dry spells.

How to Fertilize Brewer's angelica?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Angelica breweri, it's essential to keep a balanced approach to fertilization. Typically, a liquid fertilizer should be diluted to half its strength before application, ensuring it neither overwhelms nor undernourishes the plant.

How to Prune Brewer's angelica?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by removing any dead or damaged stems to keep the plant healthy. Identify and trim back any overly long stems to promote bushier growth. Be sure to make your cuts at a 45-degree angle to facilitate water runoff and aid in healing. Aim to open the center of the plant by removing some of the crowded inner stems, allowing for better air circulation and sunlight penetration. After the flowers have faded, remove them by cutting back to a pair of leaves. This deadheading process encourages Angelica breweri to focus energy on new growth and future blooms. Regular deadheading ensures the plant remains attractive throughout the growing season. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Brewer's angelica plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Fill seed trays with a quality starting mix and evenly sow Angelica breweri seeds. Cover lightly with soil and maintain consistent moisture until germination, which can take up to 2-3 weeks.

In early spring, carefully dig up the Angelica breweri clumps and use a sharp knife to divide the root stock. Ensure each division has healthy roots and shoots for successful replanting.

Once seedlings are established and have several sets of leaves, transplant them carefully to avoid root damage. Ensure well-drained soil and adequate spacing to support growth.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Brewer's angelica plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Angelica breweri typically indicates it's time for repotting when its roots begin to outgrow the current container, often showing through the drainage holes, or when you notice a decline in plant vigor, such as stunted growth or yellowing leaves.

Choose a pot just one size larger than the current one, with good drainage holes. A slightly larger pot provides enough room for root expansion without overwhelming the plant, ensuring excess water doesn't lead to root rot while accommodating growth.

Use well-draining sandy loam soil to ensure optimal moisture balance. This type of soil minimizes water retention, reduces the risk of root rot, and provides essential nutrients, thus supporting healthy plant growth.