American Angelica
Angelica atropurpurea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Angelica atropurpurea is a tall native wildflower found throughout eastern North America that blooms from June through August. This moisture-loving plant attracts diverse pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
36"–96" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CT, DE, IA, IL and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, wasps, flies
American angelica is a tall, dramatic native wildflower that produces large umbrella-shaped clusters of small white flowers in summer. This moisture-loving plant can reach up to 8 feet tall and thrives in partial shade with consistent water.
Growing American Angelica
Grow American Angelica in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 36 to 96 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Angelica takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very tall height (up to 8 feet) appears uncontrolled
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare stems
- Wild, unstructured appearance doesn't fit formal landscaping
Wildlife value
The large flower clusters attract diverse pollinators including native bees, beneficial wasps, beetles, and flies. Seeds provide food for birds in fall.
Common questions
- When does American Angelica bloom?
- Angelica atropurpurea typically blooms from June through August, producing large umbrella-shaped clusters of small white flowers.
- Where is American Angelica native?
- This species is native to much of eastern North America, from Maine south to North Carolina and Tennessee, and west to Minnesota and Iowa.
- What pollinators visit American Angelica?
- The flat-topped flower clusters attract a wide variety of pollinators including bees, beetles, wasps, and flies, making it valuable for supporting insect biodiversity.
- What growing conditions does Angelica atropurpurea prefer?
- American Angelica thrives in moist to wet soils and prefers partial sun to partial shade conditions, often found in wetlands, stream banks, and rich woods.
- Is American Angelica HOA-friendly?
- American Angelica takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow American Angelica? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz