Valerian Herbs

Description

• Reaching 3 to 5 feet tall, this perennial herb produces toothed, lance-shaped leaves. The plant forms clumps 2 to 4 feet wide. Showy pink or white flowers appear in summer adding fragrance to the garden. The roots of this herb emit a strong scent when dug up.

Habitat

• Valerian grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 7. This flower grows wild in Europe and western Asia. Preferring full sun, valerian tolerates light shade, but flops over when grown in too much shade. It needs well-draining soil that stays moist, but not waterlogged.

Propagation

• Valerian grows well from seed sown in spring. Barely cover the seeds with soil becaues they need bright light to germinate. If started indoors, transplant the seedlings into small containers. Plant the valerian out in the early summer. This herb can be propagated by division. Dig up large clumps and divide into smaller plants in spring.

Warning

• Valerian herbs grow aggressively in fertile, moist soil. Grow it in large containers to prevent the spread of roots into unwanted areas of the garden. Deadheading the dying flowers prevents the formation of seeds, which scatter throughout the landscape. Cats enjoy rolling in this herb and will destroy the leaves and flowers.