💊 Valerian
Valeriana officinalis
medicinal_herbs perennial
V
☀️ Sun
Full sun to partial shade
💧 Water
Moderate to high
🗺️ Zones
4–9
🪴 Soil Type
Loamy, rich
🧪 Soil pH
6.0–7.0
💧 Drainage
Moist, well-drained
📏 Spacing
18–24 inches
📐 Height
3–5 feet
📅 Days to Maturity
365 days (roots harvested in second year)
🍴 Edible Parts
🍽️ Root (medicinal)🍽️ young leaves (occasional salad)
🤝 Companions (7)
Attracts beneficial insects
Shared moisture needs
Companion in medicinal gardens
Drought buffer and pollinator attractor
Ground cover, pest deterrent
🤝 Chamomile
Similar growing conditions
Vigorous ground cover, pest repellent
⚠️ Keep Apart (2)
💊 Medicinal Uses
Renowned sedative and nervine; valerenic acid in root binds GABA receptors to promote relaxation and sleep. Used for insomnia, anxiety, nervous tension, and mild muscle spasms. Avoid prolonged use; may cause vivid dreams or morning drowsiness in some individuals.
📜 History & Traditional Uses
Used since ancient Greece and Rome as a sleep aid. Known as 'all-heal' in medieval Europe. WWI soldiers used it for shell shock. Galen prescribed it for insomnia. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, naturalized in North America.
📝 Notes
Harvest roots in fall of second year for highest potency. Flowers attract beneficial insects and pollinators. Cats are strongly attracted to valerian, similar to catnip. Divide every 3–4 years. Roots have a distinct earthy, musky odor when dried.