Purplestem Angelica
Purple-stemmed Angelica (Angelica atropurpurea) is a perennial native to eastern and central North America—including Wisconsin. It can grow up to ten feet tall. Its flowers are small, only about a quarter inch across, but they bloom in large umbrella-like clusters called umbels that span 8 to 10 inches wide. The flowers are typically white to greenish-white and bloom from late spring into summer. The leaves are compound and can reach up to 24 inches in both length and width. Each leaflet grows to about 4.5 inches long and 2.5 inches wide, with a toothed, oval shape. The stems are hollow, smooth, and purple. They are typically 1 to 2 inches thick. Purple-stemmed Angelica prefers moist to wet soils that are rich and well-drained, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is most commonly found in marshes, wet meadows, and along streambanks, especially where the soil has some lime content.
Ecologically, purple angelica—as a member of the carrot family—plays a valuable role in supporting biodiversity. Like many other Apiaceae species, it features umbels of flowers that are especially attractive to a wide range of pollinators, including bees and flies. While specific larval host associations for purple angelica remain under-documented, related species in the family are known to support caterpillars of butterflies and moths. By offering nectar, pollen, and shelter, purple angelica contributes to the ecological richness of the wetland environments where it thrives.
In the garden, purple-stemmed Angelica can be a striking ornamental, especially in rain gardens or near water features. It offers height, interesting structure, and purple stems that contrast beautifully with its blooms. It’s generally deer-resistant and supports pollinators. While it may only live a few years as a biennial or short-lived perennial, it can reseed naturally if conditions are right. (LS)