Angelica capitellata aka Woollyhead Parsnip

Angelica capitellata is a herbaceous perennial in the carrot family, Apiaceae. Gardeners also call it ranger's buttons or white heads. Its native range spans the western United States to northern Baja California, Mexico. It grows in California, Idaho, Nevada, and Oregon. Wild plants grow in damp meadows, along streams, and in wetlands. Kew places the species in a temperate climate zone.

Plants reach 3–6 feet (0.91–1.83 metres) tall. Their spread is about 1–2 feet (0.30–0.61 metres). The strong stems stand upright and have a round cross-section. Their smooth surface becomes hairy near the flower clusters. Green compound leaves grow alternately along the stems. Leaves divide into three parts or have a pinnate form. Their edges have sparse teeth or uneven lobes. Individual leaves can exceed 0.5 feet (0.15 metres) in length.

Flowers open in July and August, forming rounded compound umbels. Each umbel spans about 0.33 feet (0.10 metres). It holds four to eighteen smaller, button-shaped clusters. These small clusters sit apart, rather than forming a flat surface. Buds start pink-purple, then open into tiny white flowers. The flowers later take on a pale purple shade. Cream, tan, or yellow fruits follow the flowers. Each fruit is a schizocarp with a flattened shape. Fruits range from round to oblong and have clear winged ribs. Their surface may be smooth or hairy.

Grow this species in full sun or part shade. It needs moist soil and accepts some periods of wetness. Good drainage suits it, despite its tolerance of wet ground. Acid to neutral soil falls within its stated growing range. NC State gives a hardiness range of USDA zones 5–9. It lists moderate growth and low maintenance needs. Seed is the recommended means of propagation. The plant suits meadows, pond edges, stream banks, and rain gardens. Nurseries do not widely stock it.

Bees and butterflies visit the flowers for nectar. Anise swallowtail caterpillars also use the plant as a host. These traits give it value in a pollinator garden. Toxicity is an important limit on its use. NC State lists leaves, roots, stems, and sap as poisonous parts. Contact can make skin sensitive to sunlight, causing burns or dermatitis. The source rates human poisoning severity as low. It also warns of risks to cats, dogs, horses, and livestock. The supplied evidence gives no supported edible use.