Valerian Seeds
Herb Specifications
Season: Perennial
USDA Zones: 4 - 9
Height: 20 - 40 inches
Bloom Season: Mid summer
Bloom Color: Pink
Environment: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-drained soil
Deer Resistant: Yes
Latin Name: Valeriana Officinalis
Planting Directions
Temperature: 65F - 75F
Average Germ Time: 7 - 21 days
Light Required: Yes
Depth: 1/8th inch
Sowing Rate: 8 - 10 seeds per plant
Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
Plant Spacing: 18 - 36 inches
Valerian (Valeriana Officinalis) - Start Valerian seeds and grow this well-known herb plant. Valerian is highly prized as a medicinal herb. It is a hardy perennial with a history of use dating back to the 16th century. It is very ornamental with fern-like foliage and pink flower heads that attract butterflies. The Valerian herb is also referred to as All Heal and Garden Heliotrope. Valerian plants are an attractive addition to the herb garden, and cats love the herb too. Sometimes, the plants need some protection from cats who might do damage.
The Valerian root is what is harvested for medicinal use. Valerian has been called nature's tranquilizer. It is used to soothe anxiety, relieve pain, and calm minds that cannot fall asleep. In many parts of the world, Valerian root is the standard care for stress and relaxation. It is considered to be very sedating.
How To Grow Valerian From Herb Seeds: Plant Valerian seeds directly outdoors in the spring. Lightly cover the herb seeds with soil and keep moist. The Valerian seedlings are fairly frost tolerant. Start with a prepared seed bed that is weed free and has organic matter worked in. The location should be in full sun to partial shade. Valerian herb plants prefer moist conditions, so provide the equivalent of 1 to 2 inches of rainfall each week. The plant will need nitrogen throughout the growing season. If you are growing Valerian herb plants for the root, cut the flower stalks when they appear. This will direct energy to the roots. Wait until the second year to harvest and dry the roots. Valerian will self-sow. Cut the spent flower heads to prevent re-seeding.
Great With Pollinators!
The Valerian is very attractive to pollinators due to its abundance of sweet smelling nectar.
Valerian Seeds
How to Grow
Plant Valerian seeds directly outdoors in the spring. Lightly cover the herb seeds with soil and keep moist. The Valerian seedlings are fairly frost tolerant. Sow in a prepared seed bed that has organic matter worked in. The location should be in full sun to partial shade. Valerian herb plants prefer moist conditions, so provide the equivalent of 1 to 2 inches of rainfall each week. The plant will need nitrogen throughout the growing season.
- Depth: 1/8th inch
- Sowing Rate: 8 - 10 seeds per plant
- Average Germ Time: 7 - 21 days
- Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
Herb Specifications
If growing Valerian for the root, cut the stalks when they appear so energy will be directed to the roots. Wait until the 2nd year to harvest and dry the roots. Valerian will self-sow, you can cut the spent flower heads to prevent re-seeding.
- Plant Spacing: 18 - 36 inches
- Height: 20 - 40 inches
- USDA Zones: 4 - 9
- Season: Perennial