Angelica, Korean

Angelica, Korean

Angelica gigas – This is a magnificent Angelica. The deep burgundy flower stems and umbels against the dark green leaves are stunning. Even before the flowers open, the tightly folded buds are worth watching. They look like strange little birds perched above the foliage.

The first year, Korean angelica forms a substantial mound of deeply divided leaves. In its second year, thick purple stems rise four to six feet tall and open into broad, dark burgundy umbels. It brings height and rich color into a shady garden, and the flowers draw bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects throughout late summer.

It is the kind of plant you keep going back to look at because it changes so much as the buds form, unfold and finally open. If you like unusual plants, it is worth growing for the flowers alone.

In Korea, the root is known as cham-dang-gui and has a long history in traditional medicine. It is used in formulas for menstrual health, circulation, weakness and conditions associated with the blood. The roots, leaves and seeds have also been used traditionally for colds, indigestion and rheumatic pain, as well as liver and uterine stimulants.

Dang gui does not mean the same species everywhere. Chinese dang gui is Angelica sinensis, Japanese dang gui is generally Angelica acutiloba, and Korean dang gui is Angelica gigas. These plants are related, but they have different chemistry and are not interchangeable.

The species name gigas means “giant,” which is a fair description. It is native to the moist forests, streambanks and mountain meadows of Korea and parts of northeastern Asia.

Korean angelica is generally a biennial or short-lived perennial. It grows leaves and develops its root during the first year, then flowers in its second or sometimes third year. The original plant usually dies after setting seed, but it will often replant itself if some flower heads are left standing. The seed does not store well, so letting it fall where it wants to grow is often the easiest way to keep it in the garden.

Give it rich, moist but well-drained soil. It does well with morning sun or partial shade and can take more sun in a cool climate if it gets enough water. Mulch around the roots and do not let it dry out during summer. Give it some room. A mature flowering plant can reach six feet tall and three feet across.

If you are growing it for the root, harvest in the fall before the plant flowers. If you are growing it for its beauty, let it flower and go to seed. It is one of the best Angelicas for bringing height, deep color and plenty of insect activity into a shady garden.

Latin Name: Angelica gigas
Other Names: Korean Angelica, Cham-Dang-Gui, Purple Angelica
Hardiness Zone: 5–9
Lifecycle: Biennial or short-lived perennial
Growing Tips: Morning sun to partial shade; rich, moist, well-drained soil; protect from drought
Harvest: Dig the root in fall before flowering, or allow the plant to flower and produce seed

The distinction among Korean, Chinese and Japanese dang gui is documented in this review of the three pharmacopoeial species. The growing recommendations are consistent with the Scott Arboretum’s experience with Angelica gigas and the Royal Horticultural Society’s Angelica guide.