Common Valerian

Other Names: Garden Heliotrope

Ornamental Features:

Common Valerian features beautiful lightly-scented white flowers at the ends of the stems in early summer, which are most effective when planted in groupings. The flowers are excellent for cutting. It's fragrant ferny pinnately compound leaves remain dark green in colour throughout the season. The fruit is not ornamentally significant.

Landscape Attributes:

Common Valerian is an herbaceous perennial with tall flower stalks held atop a low mound of foliage. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other garden plants with less refined foliage.

This is a high maintenance perennial that will require regular care and upkeep, and should be cut back in late fall in preparation for winter. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Self-Seeding

Common Valerian is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Herb Gardens
• Naturalizing And Woodland Gardens

Plant Characteristics:

Common Valerian will grow to be about 18 inches tall at maturity extending to 3 feet tall with the flowers, with a spread of 18 inches. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 5 years.

This perennial performs well in both full sun and full shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This plant can be propagated by seed.

This species is not originally from North America.