perennialN. America Native

Mountain Angelica

The Story

Plant Bio

Angelica triquinata, commonly known as mountain angelica, is an erect, robust herbaceous perennial native to the high-elevation woods and meadows of the Appalachian Mountains. The smooth stems mature from green to a striking purplish-red, featuring distinctive sheaths that create a filmy appearance.

This species is distinguished by its large, compound umbels of greenish-white flowers held above coarsely toothed, compound foliage. The leaflets feature sharp-pointed apexes and a marginal fringe of minute hairs.

Uses & Benefits:

Bold, architectural foliage and large, airy greenish-white flower umbels provide strong structural interest in shade gardens.

Thrives in moist, high-organic soils where other perennials struggle with consistent dampness.

Attracts a high volume of native bees, wasps, and butterflies, serving as a valuable nectar source.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

72"

Width

48"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

High

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Skin Irritant

Bloom period

Summer – Late summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site with rich, organic soil in full sun to partial shade, preferring afternoon shade in southern regions.
Amend the planting area with compost to ensure high organic matter and excellent moisture retention.
Install the plant at the same depth as its container, watering thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Maintain consistent soil moisture throughout the growing season, never allowing the soil to dry out completely.

Pro Tip

Wear gloves and long sleeves when handling this plant; the foliage and sap contain active furocoumarins that trigger severe phyto-photodermatitis when exposed to sunlight.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and keep roots cool.
Wear protective gloves when pruning or handling the foliage.
Leave spent flower stalks through winter to provide structural interest.

Don't

Do not allow the soil to dry out completely during summer heat waves.
Do not apply heavy chemical fertilizers, as rich organic soil is sufficient.
Do not plant in poorly drained, stagnant waterlogged areas.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Woodland gardensRain gardensNaturalized meadowsPollinator borders

Companion Plants

Heuchera Carex

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mountain Angelica questions

What zones can Mountain Angelica grow in?

Mountain Angelica is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mountain Angelica deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Mountain Angelica, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Mountain Angelica bloom?

Mountain Angelica typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mountain Angelica need full sun?

Mountain Angelica does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.