Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’

Description

Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ is a striking perennial with dark, dramatic foliage and tall, elegant flower stalks. Known for its ability to attract pollinators, this plant is a perfect addition to any garden, adding a touch of mystery and height. Follow this guide to ensure your Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ thrives in your garden and reaches its full potential.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The best time to plant Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ is during the spring, as the soil begins to warm. Planting in early spring allows the roots to become well-established before the growing season begins, giving the plant a solid foundation for healthy growth.
• Autumn: You can also plant in early autumn. This allows the plant to settle into its new home and establish its root system before the cooler weather sets in. Planting in autumn ensures it is ready for vigorous growth when spring arrives.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location where it can receive at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. While it can tolerate some shade, the best foliage color and growth will be achieved in brighter conditions.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is crucial for Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’. It does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot. Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage, ensuring your plant grows strong and healthy.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball of your Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’. This ensures ample space for the roots to spread out.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage. Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ benefits from rich, slightly moist soil, so enhancing the soil texture will promote optimal growth.
3. Planting: Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Fill in the hole with the amended soil and firm it gently to eliminate any air pockets around the roots.
4. Watering After Planting: Water the plant thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and help the roots establish. Make sure the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: During the growing season, Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ prefers evenly moist soil. Water the plant regularly, but be sure not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Dormant Season: In the dormant season, reduce watering significantly. Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ requires minimal water during the colder months, so water only if the soil becomes exceptionally dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage strong new growth. This gives Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ a healthy start and supports vigorous leaf and flower development.
• Mid-Summer: Consider a light feeding with an organic fertiliser in mid-summer to maintain healthy growth and to boost flowering potential. However, avoid over-fertilising as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of blooms.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regular deadheading of faded flowers encourages further blooming and keeps the plant tidy. While Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ is known for its impressive flower clusters, removing spent flowers ensures the plant continues to grow strongly.
• Autumn Pruning: After the blooming period ends, cut back the plant to the ground in autumn to prepare for the winter months. This helps prevent the plant from wasting energy on old foliage and encourages fresh, healthy growth the following season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or compost, around the base of your Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ in spring. This will help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature during the warmer months.
• Winter: In winter, mulching around the plant helps protect the roots from freezing temperatures and ensures the plant survives the colder months. Be sure not to mound mulch directly around the crown of the plant, as this can cause rot.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Due to its tall, elegant flower stalks, Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ may require support, especially in windy areas. Use stakes or plant supports to keep the flower heads upright and prevent bending or damage. Ensure that supports are tall enough to accommodate the height of the plant.

Final Tips

Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ is a relatively low-maintenance plant that adds dramatic height and bold foliage to any garden. By selecting a well-drained site with adequate sunlight, and providing regular care such as watering, feeding, and pruning, you’ll enjoy the beauty of this stunning perennial throughout the growing season. Incorporate Angelica sylvestris ‘Ebony’ into your garden design for a striking visual impact and to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. With its unique foliage and towering blooms, this plant is sure to become a focal point in your outdoor space.

 

RHS Details

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