Angelica Gigas Seeds
The Dark and Dramatic Giant of the Shade Garden
Angelica gigas, known as Korean Angelica or Purple Parsnip, is one of the most architecturally striking plants you can grow from seed. A bold, statuesque biennial or short-lived perennial, it produces enormous deeply divided leaves on thick burgundy-purple stems, topped in late summer with large, domed umbels of deep wine-purple flowers that are simply breathtaking in the garden. A true statement plant that commands attention and brings a moody, dramatic presence to borders, woodland edges, and shaded corners. Rarely available in New Zealand — a genuine find for the passionate gardener who loves something truly out of the ordinary.
⚠️ Germination note: These seeds require some skill when sowing — cold stratification is essential for good germination. Please read the growing tips carefully before sowing.
Why Gardeners Love It
- 💜 Stunning deep wine-purple flower umbels — large, domed flowerheads in a rich, moody burgundy-purple that is almost unmatched in the garden
- 🌿 Bold architectural foliage — enormous deeply divided leaves on thick purple-flushed stems, dramatic from the moment it emerges
- 📏 Grows 1.5–2 m tall — a towering back-of-border or woodland edge specimen that creates instant impact
- 🐝 Outstanding for bees and butterflies — the large umbels are a magnet for pollinators in late summer
- 🌱 Self-seeds freely once established — will naturalise in the right conditions and return year after year
- ✨ Hard to find in New Zealand — a rare and sought-after variety seldom seen in local nurseries or garden centres
Growing Tips for New Zealand
Angelica gigas requires a period of cold stratification to germinate well. Sow fresh seed in autumn and leave pots outside over winter to cold stratify naturally, or refrigerate seeds in moist paper towel for 4–6 weeks before sowing in spring. Sow on the surface of moist seed-raising mix — seeds need light to germinate. Grow on in a cool position and transplant to a sheltered spot with rich, moist, well-drained soil in partial shade or dappled sunlight. Water regularly, especially in dry periods. Performs best in cooler NZ regions and sheltered garden positions. A biennial — it will flower in its second year and then self-seed to continue the display.
What's in the Packet
Each packet contains 5 seeds of Angelica gigas.