The Sacred Angelica Flower: Discover Its Symbolic Significance
Angelica, also known as wild celery or garden angelica, is a biennial and perennial herb cultivated for both ornamental and culinary uses. Historically, angelica has also been prized for its medicinal applications, and some cultures believe the plant possesses magical properties. In this guide, I’ll run through everything you need to know about Angelica flower meaning and symbolism in the language of flowers.
Angelica Flower Symbolism – Key Takeaways
The name Angelica comes from Greek for “archangel” (arkhangelos); folklore says angels announced their therapeutic properties. In the language of flowers, angelica means inspiration.
Etymological Meaning
Angelica flowers’ official name — Angelica archangelica — comes from the Greek word for archangel, or arkhangelos. European folklore says that the archangel Michael showed the plant to a monk in a dream and claimed it would cure the plague.
Angelica Flower Meaning & Symbolism
Most angelica species bloom with green-white flowers. Some varieties blossom in shades of white or pink.
In the language of flowers, angelica is associated with inspiration. Giving the gift of angelica means you hope to inspire and encourage someone.
In addition, angelica flowers are often seen as symbols of creativity. They are believed to inspire artists, writers, and musicians and are associated with the muse.
Angelica flowers can symbolize guidance and divine intervention. They are often seen as a connection to spiritual realms and a source of support and guidance in times of need.
Angelica plays a role in many cultures. In European folklore, it’s associated with angels and protection against witchcraft. During the days of witch-hunting in Europe and Colonial America, women would plant angelica in their gardens to prove they weren’t witches.
In Lapland, the Sami people use dried angelica to make a reed instrument known as a fadno.
Several indigenous North American tribes used angelica for ritual purposes.
Suitable Gifting Occasions
Angelica flowers are associated with inspiration and encouragement. They make an ideal gift for someone going through a rough patch or needing to feel inspired.
The flowers’ unique fragrance makes them a welcome addition to floral arrangements for birthdays and congratulatory gifts. They’re also an appropriate flower for co-workers and other professional acquaintances.
Angelica Flowers FAQs:
How do you identify Angelica?
Angelica is a biennial or short-lived perennial. It usually produces only a clump of foliage in its first year. In its second year, it blooms, plants seeds, and dies. Usually, in early summer, it blooms with globular, green-white umbrels up to 6 inches in diameter. Flowers turn to pale yellow seeds in late summer. Its yellow-green foliage is compound and may grow from 2 to 3 feet long.
What does Angelica smell like?
Angelica flowers and foliage have a distinctive, pleasant aroma. Some say it smells like a mixture of juniper and musk.
What do angelica flowers symbolize in the language of flowers?
Angelica flowers are often associated with inspiration, protection, guidance, healing, and purity in the language of flowers. They can represent the muse, a shield against negativity, divine guidance, healing properties, and purity of thought or action.
Are angelica flowers commonly used in floral arrangements or bouquets?
In my experience, Angelica flowers are less commonly used in floral arrangements or bouquets than more popular flowers. They have a unique appearance, with their clusters of tiny flowers forming a rounded shape on tall stems. However, they can add an exciting and symbolic touch to floral arrangements with a specific meaning.
Are there any cultural or historical significance associated with angelica flowers?
Angelica flowers have a rich cultural and historical background. In various traditions, they have been used for their medicinal properties and as a symbol of protection or connection to the divine. Angelica plants have also been associated with folklore, folklore, and legends in different cultures.
Can angelica flowers be gifted for specific occasions or to convey particular messages?
Angelica flowers can be gifted for specific occasions or to convey particular messages. For example, they may be given to someone who needs inspiration or guidance in their creative endeavors. They can also be presented as a symbol of protection or as a healing gesture to someone going through a difficult time.
Wrapping Up Angelica Flower Meaning
Angelica flowers bring a unique fragrance and dramatic look to floral arrangements and gardens. They’re an ideal way to offer inspiration and encouragement to someone who’s feeling low. With their many culinary and medicinal uses and rich meaning and symbolism, it’s no surprise that angelica flowers have been popular across cultures for centuries.