Valeriana officinalis

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Valeriana officinalis
Also known as: Garden valerian

Plant Properties

Layer: Herb layer
Format: Smal
Height: 1.50 m
Width: 1.00 m
Growth Rate: Fast
Leaf: -

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 4-8
Soil Moisture:
Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acid Neutral Basic
Light:
Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Condiment, Tea, Seed
Edibility:
(2)
Medicinal:
(3)
Features:
Ethereal oil, Repellent, Fragrant

Description

Seeds. No further details are known, but the seeds of other similar plants have dried out and then been eaten. The essential oil derived from the leaves and roots is used as a flavoring in ice cream, pastries, spices, and more. It plays an important role in apple flavors. The leaves can also be used as a spice. Additionally, the plant is moderately used for herbal tea.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/09
End of Harvest: 15/10

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild Description
Aegopodium podagraria
Ground Elder, Bishop's goutweed, Goutweed, Bishop's Weed
Aegopodium podagraria can help to suppress weeds and enrich the soil as it has a spreading growth habit and deep roots that improve soil structure.
Lathyrus linifolius
Bitter Vetch
Mentha x piperita (peppermint) attracts pollinators and can improve the flavor of nearby plants, creating a rich ecosystem around Valeriana officinalis.
Thymus vulgaris
Common Thyme, Garden thyme, Wild Thyme
Thymus vulgaris (thyme) improves the growth conditions for Valeriana officinalis by providing shade and maintaining soil moisture, and it can repel certain pests.
Urtica dioica
Stinging nettel, California nettel
Urtica dioica (nettles) can attract beneficial insects and provide nutrients when they decompose, fostering a supportive environment for Valeriana officinalis.
Allium neapolitanum
Daffodil garlic
Zizyphus jujuba can provide physical support and shade, helping to create microclimates that are beneficial for Valeriana officinalis.