A tall and elegant perennial, known for its delicate clusters of white flowers and its ancient use in herbal medicine. The root of this plant is renowned for its soothing properties and is commonly used in herbal teas, tinctures, and extracts, traditionally associated with sleep and anxiety reduction. Valerian grows vigorously and easily in garden beds or herb borders, reaching up to 1.5 meters in height under good conditions. Its flowers attract bees and butterflies, and its roots often pique the interest of cats, much like catnip!

Where to Grow Valerian?
Valerian thrives in zones 4 to 9 and prefers full sun as well as well-drained soil. Although it tolerates various conditions, it grows best in fertile, slightly moist soils. It is suitable for both ornamental and medicinal gardens and makes an excellent companion plant, attracting pollinators.

History and Traditional Uses
Used since ancient Greece and Rome, valerian was known to promote rest and calm agitation. In the Middle Ages, it was also used to treat nervous disorders and certain forms of hysteria. In modern herbal medicine, valerian root is still widely used as a natural sleep aid, often included in relaxing herbal tea blends.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8–9: Direct sow in spring or fall; plant overwinters easily.
• Zones 5–7: Start indoors in early spring or sow outdoors after frosts.
• Zones 3–4: Start indoors then transplant after all risk of frost.

How to Grow and Harvest Valerian

• Sowing: Sow seeds on the surface or lightly covered with soil; they need light to germinate.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during establishment, then water as needed.
• Harvesting: Roots can be harvested in the second or third year, after flowering.
• Maintenance: Remove spent flowers to limit self-seeding, unless naturalization is desired.

Tips for Seed Harvesting

• Harvesting: Allow some flowers to go to seed; harvest when heads are dry and brown.
• Drying: Dry seed heads in a warm, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Clean the seeds and store them in a cool, dry, dark place in paper envelopes or glass jars.

Certified Organic by
Islands Organics Producers Association (Certificate No. 1962)