Angelica sylvestris purpurea, 'Vicar's Mead'

Germination

Sow indoors. Sow 5mm deep into moist seed compost. Propagate 20°C. Germination is erratic, for best results cold stratify. If germination does not occur after 3 weeks lower temp. to 5°C. for 2-3 weeks then return to 20°C where germination should occur in 14-28 days but may take much longer. Prick out into 8cm pots as seedlings develop. Grow on in a cold frame over winter. Transplant to final growing position the following spring.

Growing

Prefers fertile, well-drained, moist soil. Shelter from the wind. Keep moist, mulch in hot weather. Could benefit from fertilising in early spring and again in summer. This is a short-lived perennial often grown as a biennial.

Cultivation

Cut and come again variety. Cut flowers regularly to encourage growth and to prolong flowering window. Deadhead if you do not want it to self-seed. Most of the plant is edible.