Garden herbs

Herb: Valerian (Valerian Officinalis)

Background: Valere is the Latin verb 'to be healthy'. The root of Valerian has a nasty smell and is used as a medicine.

Garden herb type: Perennial.

Growing this garden herb: The seed of Valerian are slow to germinate. Sow them in spring under glass and plant out in summer to 60cm apart. Harvest the roots at the end of the second season then dry the rhizomes.

Soil condition and garden position: This herb is native to marshy soil. It likes a sunny, damp but well drained place. Cut off the flowering heads as they appear. Valerian can be grown in a container but it needs to be kept watered.

Appearance: Valerian has pink flowers from June to August. It can reach a height of 75cm.

Uses: Valerian has traditionally been used as a tranquillizer and is supposed to promote sleep. Valerian tea can be drunk before retiring for a few days but not over a long period of time. An ointment made from the leaves or roots is said to heal skin complaints.

Nurturing herbs is an important part of gardening. Gardening Tools Direct have endeavored to group this information together for your interest. Please also see our garden related products.