Angelica archangelica, also known as garden angelica, is a biennial plant from the Apiaceae family. It is native to temperate and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, reaching as far north as Iceland, Greenland, and Lapland. The plant typically grows in damp soil, preferably near rivers or deposits of water.

Garden angelica usually grows to a height of 1-2 meters. Its distinguishing features include bright green, serrated leaves and large, round clusters of small, greenish-white flowers that bloom in late summer. The plant has a sweet, aromatic scent and a unique flavor.

Parts of the plant are edible and it has been used in a variety of ways throughout history. The stems and seeds are used in the preparation of certain liqueurs, like Chartreuse and Benedictine. In traditional medicine, it has been used for its reputed curative properties. However, the plant’s furanocoumarins content can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and may cause dermatitis.