Herbs

VALERIAN
Valeriana officinalis

Ancient Herb • Pollinator Favorite • Hardy Perennial

Valerian is a beautiful flowering herb that has been grown for more than 2,000 years. Known for its fragrant flowers, pollinator-friendly blooms, and traditional herbal uses, valerian is a great addition to herb gardens, cottage gardens, and pollinator habitats.

Plant Details

• USDA Zones: 3–9
• Height: 3–6 feet
• Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
• Water: Moderate; prefers consistently moist soil
• Bloom Time: Late Spring through Summer
• Flower Color: White to Pale Pink
• Perennial: Yes

Why Grow Valerian?

✓ Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

✓ Returns year after year

✓ Traditionally used in herbal teas and tinctures

✓ Deer resistant once established

✓ Beautiful tall flower clusters

Fun Facts

• Valerian was known to Ancient Greek physicians over 2,000 years ago.

• Historically, valerian was used by herbalists to promote relaxation and restful sleep.

• During the World Wars, valerian was commonly used in Europe as a traditional calming herb during times of stress and nervous tension.

• The flowers smell sweet, while the roots have a much stronger scent - sorta like oldy stinky socks you climbed a mountain in and then stuffed in the back of your closet for year.

• Many cats love valerian root and may react to it similarly to catnip.

• A mature plant can grow over 6 feet tall.

Growing Tips

Valerian grows best in rich soil with regular moisture. It thrives in Montana gardens and tolerates cold winters with ease. Allow flower heads to mature if you'd like the plant to self-seed naturally, or cut it off if you want juicy medicinal roots!

"Most people have never heard of valerian—but pollinators certainly have."