Valerian seeds
Valeriana officinalis
Pack: 50 seeds, 2g
Valeriana officinalis, or valerian, is a hardy perennial. Plants form upright clumps of green leaves that are divided. In summer, stems bear clusters of pale pink to white flowers. The blooms attract bees and other beneficial insects. Valerian suits cottage gardens, wildlife borders, and damp beds. Keep the soil consistently moist with good drainage. Stake plants in windy areas to keep stems straight.
SOWING GUIDE
- The best time is late winter to spring. Autumn sowing suits mild climates.
- Seed prep (optional), cold stratify 2 to 4 weeks in the fridge for even germination.
- Depth, surface sow or cover very lightly, 1 to 2 mm.
- Light, bright light helps germination.
- Temperature: keep 15 to 20°C until germination.
- Moisture, keep evenly moist. Do not let the seedbed dry out.
- Germination window, 14 to 28 days, slower if cool.
- Prick out and transplant when the seedlings are easily handled.
- Spacing, 30 to 45 cm between plants.
- Site, sun to part shade. Rich, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil.
- Care, mulch to hold moisture. Cut back after flowering to tidy.
PLANT DETAILS
- Botanical name: Valeriana officinalis
- Common name: Valerian
- Life cycle, Perennial
- Height, 90 to 150 cm
- Spread, 45 to 60 cm
- Position, Sun to part shade
- Soil, Moist, fertile, well-drained
- Water, Regular, prefers consistent moisture
- Frost, Hardy
Caution: valerian is sold here as a garden perennial. It is not suitable for anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding.
Sold as seed for home garden growing only. We do not sell this as a food, a tea, a herbal preparation or a medicine, we give no preparation or dosage instructions, and we make no health claim of any kind. Any historical information is offered as garden history only. Seek advice from a qualified health practitioner before using any plant.
