Angelica

There are two species of Angelica on Westray. There is Wild Angelica, Angelica sylvestris, known as Caiko, which is a native species of heath, dale, and, more recently, road verges. It’s found at Rapness Mill and along the path to the Castle o’ Burrian. Then there is Garden Angelica, Angelica archangelic, introduced around the village of Pierowall and, amongst locals, said to be a relic of the Viking immigration.

Both are beautiful, energetic plants, bursting powerfully from the earth, and spreading nutritious umbels of flowers for a myriad of insects to enjoy. I love seeing them and really must try to candy some stems this year.