Garden angelica (Angelica archangelica)

Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source

Pruning guide · Herb

Garden angelica: when and how to prune

Angelica archangelica

Garden angelica is best pruned in July–August.

Key facts
Pruning monthsJuly–August
FloweringJune–July
Good for bees, butterflies and birdsYes, for bees
Native to BelgiumNo, planted

Garden angelica: when to prune it?

Real pruning is not needed. After flowering, in July–August, cut off the flower heads or harvest the seed; then remove the dead plant.

What else to prune in those months? July · August

Garden angelica: how to prune it?

  1. If you do not want seedlings, cut off the spent flower heads before the seed ripens.
  2. Leave a few heads if you want it to self-seed or wish to harvest seed.
  3. After setting seed the plant dies: cut the stem at the base and remove the root.
  4. Wear gloves and long sleeves when working on sunny days.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • One pruning period a year: July–August.

What does it mean for wildlife?

  • Garden angelica flowers in June–July, when it attracts bees.
  • If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.

Caution: The sap can irritate the skin in combination with sunlight.

Nearby: related pruning guides

Plant profile: Garden angelica · Pruning calendar and basic rules

This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.

Laden…