Valeriana officinalis

Plant Profile:  Valeriana officinalis (Garden Valerian, Common Valerian)

• Scientific Name: Valeriana officinalis
• Common Names: Garden valerian, common valerian, all-heal
• Family: Valerianaceae
• Type: Herbaceous perennial

Size:

• Height: 1 to 1.5 m (3.3 to 5 ft)
• Spread: 0.5 to 1 m (1.6 to 3.3 ft)

Cultural Details:

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type: Well-drained, humus-rich soil; tolerant of a variety of soil conditions
• Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 – 7.0)
• Watering Needs: Moderate; consistent moisture preferred but is drought tolerant once established
• Bloom Time: Early summer to late summer
• Flower Color: Tiny, sweet-smelling white or pale pink flowers

USDA Hardiness Zone:

• Hardiness Zone: 4 – 9

Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Hardiness Rating:

• RHS Hardiness Rating: H7 (Hardy in the severest European continental climates; -20 °C to -15 °C or -4 °F to 5 °F)

Planting Tips:

• Plants should be spaced 30 to 40 cm (11.8 to 15.7 inches) apart.
• Incorporate organic matter (e.g., compost) at planting time to enrich the soil.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Can be cut back after flowering if plants become straggly.
• Propagation: Divide in spring or autumn; also can be grown from seed.
• Pests/Diseases: Generally pest-free, but can be prone to slug damage and powdery mildew in damp conditions.

Uses:

• Gardening: Used in mixed borders, cottage gardens, and medicinal gardens.
• Medicinal: Historically used to treat a variety of ailments including nervousness, insomnia, and headaches (note: consult a medical professional before using medicinally).

Caution:

• All parts of the plant can cause stomach upset if ingested.
• Can become invasive in some regions due to self-seeding;

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