Common name: Korean Mint Pinyin: tu huo xiang Part used: Leaf ...

Angelica dahurica (Fisch. ex Hoffm.) Benth.& HookerCommon name: Daurian angelicaPinyin name: bai zhiPart used: rootFamily: Apiaceaewww.coilingdragon.comPlant DescriptionThis beautiful but short-lived perennial responds to cool, moist fertile soil at the forest edge, valleygrasslands or stream banks. Dauria is near the Mongolian-Siberian border, thus the plant is hardy to Zone4. First-year plants remain in a basal clump about 30 inches high, fuller in richer soil, with complexdivided leaves 10-20 inches long, and reddish-purple coloration at the base of the clump. In the second orthird year, the plant sends up a sturdy, hollow, one-inch diameter stalk to 8 feet. White flowers are borneon umbels up to 12 inches in diameter in July-September. Seeds follow, turning from greenish white tomedium brown and papery as they ripen.PropagationDry, flat seeds with dorsal and lateral ribs will wind-disperse widely, with a few germinating years later ina moist setting. (The plant has naturalized in our garden.) Dormancy occurs less than six months afterseed harvest, and dry-stored seeds are all dead after one year. Light is required for germination. Surfacesow fresh seed on moist medium, 15-21 days at 70°F.Field ProductionSeedlings may be kept in pots for more than one season before setting out. Rich soil and moisture willincrease size in all parts. Plant at a 24-inch radius in partial shade. Water evenly for best results, althoughthis species is tough and can endure neglect and short periods of drought. Yield estimated at 5 pounds dryweight per 100 square feet.PestsNone noted.HarvestCylindrical, pale brown roots 1-2 inches thick and 4-7 inches long must be harvested before the stalkemerges. The roots have a longitudinal grain, a white interior and a pleasant odor resembling that of wildQueen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota). Remove leaves, trim side roots, make thin even longitudinal oroblique slices of main root, dry thoroughly.NotesAngelica formosana H. de Boissieu is synonymous with A. dahurica. Angelica taiwaniana S.S. Ying is asubstitute for bai zhi and has a slightly different leaf texture.© 2009 High Falls Gardenswww.highfallsgardens.net