Finding and Growing the Majestic Angelica gigas Plant

With its huge, spherical purple flower heads topping towering dark purple stems, Angelica gigas is an eye-catching and statuesque plant that makes a dramatic statement in any garden This impressive biennial is also commonly known as Korean angelica or giant angelica If you’re looking to add an exotic, architectural element to your outdoor space, Angelica gigas may be just the plant you’re searching for. Here’s what you need to know about finding and successfully growing this uncommon botanical wonder.

Availability – Where to Buy Angelica Gigas Plants

Since it is not a common annual or perennial, Angelica gigas plants are not widely available at most mainstream garden retailers. However, you can source them from reputable online nurseries that specialize in unique, hard-to-find plants.

Some recommended online sellers of Angelica gigas plants include:

• Digging Dog Nursery – A small California nursery offering a wide selection of uncommon perennials, shrubs, trees and more. Angelica gigas is available as a pre-order for spring delivery

• Heritage Flower Farm – A family-owned Wisconsin nursery focused on heirloom perennials and flowers. They sell potted Angelica gigas plants.

• White Flower Farm – A premier Connecticut-based nursery selling a diverse range of perennials, shrubs, bulbs and more. Angelica gigas is available as packaged roots

When shopping for Angelica gigas plants online, be sure to buy from reputable sellers who stake their reputation on providing healthy, viable plant material. Read customer reviews and check for guarantees.

Plant Profile – Angelica Gigas Growth Habits and Care

Here are some key facts about the growth habits and care requirements of Angelica gigas:

• Hardiness – Angelica gigas thrives in USDA zones 4-9. It can tolerate cold winters with adequate mulching.

• Exposure – Full sun to part shade. Needs at least 4 hours of direct sun daily.

• Soil – Rich, moist soil with good drainage. Prefers loamy soil. Avoid soggy conditions.

• Size – Grows 4-6 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. Requires staking as it grows.

• Duration – Short-lived perennial grown as a biennial. Blooms second year from seed then sets seed and dies.

• Flowers – Enormous 8-10 inch wide spherical deep purple flower heads. Blooms mid to late summer.

• Care – Keep soil evenly moist. Cut back plants after flowering. Self-sows if flowers are left on the plant.

Growing Tips for Success with Angelica Gigas

Follow these tips to successfully grow Angelica gigas in your garden:

• Site carefully – Give this towering plant plenty of space. Allow at least 2-3 feet all around it.

• Prepare soil – Work compost into your soil to create rich, moist, fertile growing conditions.

• Stake stems – Once they reach 2-3 feet, stake the stems to support their continued growth.

• Water regularly – Ensure the soil stays evenly moist, not soggy. Water deeply during drought.

• Fertilize occasionally – Apply a balanced organic fertilizer once or twice during the growing season.

• Remove flowers – Cut off faded blooms to encourage more flowers and discourage self-sowing.

• Mulch in winter – Apply 4-6 inches of shredded leaves or bark around the base to protect the plant from hard freezes.

• Divide roots – In spring, you can divide the fleshy roots to propagate new plants.

Common Pests and Diseases

Angelica gigas is relatively pest and disease free. Potential issues to watch for include:

• Powdery mildew
• Leaf spot diseases
• Snails and slugs
• Aphids

Promptly address any emerging pest or disease issues before they intensify. Remove and destroy affected foliage or plants. Avoid overhead watering which encourages fungal diseases.

Design Uses in the Garden

Here are some ideas for incorporating Angelica gigas into your garden:

• Plant it as a focal point or thriller plant in a border or island bed.

• Use it as a striking background plant behind smaller perennials and shrubs.

• Allow it to self-sow for a colonies of angelicas in a naturalized area.

• Underplant it with low growing perennials like catmint or coral bells.

• Partner it with blue flowering plants like Russian sage to create vivid color contrasts.

• Mass several together for bold architectural impact.

Enjoying This Unique Botanical Wonder

Angelica gigas is a uniquely beautiful plant that delivers an immense visual impact when grown in the garden. With its stunning spherical blooms towering high above other plants, it truly lives up to its common name of “giant angelica.” Although it can be challenging to source, this plant is well worth seeking out. Care for it properly and it will thrive, rewarding you with an eye-catching display unlike any other.