Valeriana officinalis aka Garden Heliotrope

Valeriana officinalis is a deciduous perennial known as common valerian. Garden heliotrope and all-heal are other names for it. It belongs to the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae. Its native range runs from Europe to northwestern Iran. It is native to Britain and Ireland too. Garden escapes now grow in northern America and Canada. It grows in grassland, scrub, woods, and roadside sites.

The plant forms a leafy clump and grows fast. Garden plants reach 3–5 feet [0.91–1.52 metres] tall. Some reach 6 feet [1.83 metres]. They spread about 2–4 feet [0.61–1.22 metres] wide. The RHS gives a smaller spread of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Tall, thin, hollow stems rise above the basal leaves. These green stems have hairs, most visible at the nodes. Opposite, pinnate leaves have four to nine leaflet pairs. One extra leaflet sits at each leaf's tip. The narrow leaflets have green tops and paler undersides. Bruised leaves release a scent.

Small white or pale pink flowers form branched clusters. Their scent and summer display give the plant garden value. Bloom runs from June into July, sometimes through August. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers for nectar. Wind carries the winged seeds away from the plant. Valerian suits herb beds, cottage gardens, and mixed borders. Its flowers also suit cutting. Deer tend to leave it alone.

Grow it in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Rich loam suits it best, though ordinary garden soil works. It also grows in clay and sandy soil. Partial shade is possible, but shaded stems may fall over. Cool summers and ample rain suit it well. Sources give USDA zones 4–7 and UK rating H4. Seed, division, and spring basal cuttings provide new plants. Cut stems to ground level in autumn. Serious pest and disease problems are uncommon. Rhizomes and self-sown seeds can make it invasive. It may crowd out native plants outside gardens. Removing spent flowers helps limit seed spread.

Leaves, seeds, and roots have recorded food uses. Leaf and root oils serve as food flavourings. Leaves also serve as a condiment, and tea needs moderation. The roots have a history of use as sedatives. Root oil also has uses in perfume. Medicinal use can cause nausea, headaches, agitation, or heart palpitations. Sources warn that prolonged use may lead to dependence. Avoid combining it with alcohol or other sedatives. It can impair alertness, so avoid use before driving.