How to Grow Valerian

Valerian

Valeriana officinalis

herb

Valerian is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, known for its fragrant pink or white flowers and distinctive root system with powerful medicinal properties. The plant grows 3-5 feet tall with finely divided, feathery foliage and produces clusters of small flowers in early summer. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun to partial shade; prefers 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily

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Water: Moderate watering; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once established, fairly drought-tolerant. Water at soil level to minimize disease.

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Spacing: 18 inches

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Days to maturity: 180-240 days (harvest roots in autumn of second or third year)

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Planting depth: Surface sow seeds or plant 1/4 inch deep; seeds need stratification

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy soil with moderate fertility

pH: 6.0-7.5

Amendments:

Compost aged manure peat moss

Growing Zones

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Thrives in zones 4-8; hardy perennial that tolerates cold climates well

3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b

Growth Stages

Seedling

3-4 weeks

Tiny seed germinates with two cotyledons; true leaves are deeply divided and delicate. Growth is slow initially.

Keep soil moist but not soggy. Provide indirect light. Seeds benefit from 4-6 weeks cold stratification before planting. Thin seedlings to proper spacing.

Vegetative/Establishment (Year 1)

6-8 months

Plant develops strong root system and feathery foliage reaching 1-2 feet. Leaves are pinnately divided with serrated edges.

Focus on root development rather than flowering. Water regularly during dry periods. Mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature. Pinch off any flower buds to encourage root growth.

Dormancy (Winter Year 1)

2-3 months

Above-ground foliage dies back; plant enters winter dormancy. Underground, the rhizome continues developing.

No watering needed once dormant. Mulch heavily for root protection in colder zones. Allow natural senescence.

Flowering (Year 2+)

4-6 weeks

Plant produces tall stems (3-5 feet) topped with dense clusters of small, fragrant pink, white, or pale lavender flowers. Blooms appear in June-July.

Stake tall varieties if needed. Plants are self-fertile and attract pollinators. Allow some flowers to go to seed for natural propagation. Harvest roots after flowering.

Harvest/Root Development

Harvest typically in year 2-3

Roots become larger and more potent by the third year. Root has distinctive musty, earthy odor.

Harvest roots in fall (September-October) after foliage dies back. Dig carefully to extract full roots. Clean, dry, and store properly. Can divide rhizomes for propagation.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Peppermint Chamomile Lavender Lemon balm Oregano Thyme Borage

Avoid planting near:

Cabbage family (Brassicas) Fennel Anise

Common Pests

and
Remove by hand, use diatomaceous earth barriers, encourage predators like ground beetles
Spray with water jet, use insecticidal soap, release ladybugs as biological control
Increase humidity, spray with water, apply neem oil in severe cases
Ensure excellent drainage, avoid overwatering, remove affected plants, amend soil with sulfur
Ensure good air circulation, reduce humidity, apply sulfur dust or neem oil

Uses

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Sleep & Relaxation Support

Medicinal

Valerian root is widely used in herbal medicine as a natural sedative to improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety. The root contains valerenic acid and other compounds that are traditionally believed to calm the nervous system. [source]

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Nervous System Tonic

Medicinal

Historically used to support emotional balance and ease nervous tension. Often prepared as teas, tinctures, or extracts to promote general wellness. [source]

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Herbal Tea & Infusions

Culinary

Dried roots can be steeped to create a distinctive earthy tea with a musty aroma. The flavor is strong and somewhat bitter. [source]

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Natural Pest Deterrent

Household

Valerian fermented liquid or extract can be used as an organic garden spray to deter certain pests and insects from vegetables and ornamental plants. [source]

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Pollinator Garden Plant

Wildlife

The fragrant flower clusters attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it valuable for supporting pollinator populations. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Harvest roots in autumn (September-October) of the second or third year when above-ground foliage dies back. Dig carefully to avoid breaking roots; use a garden fork to loosen soil first. Carefully extract the entire rhizome. Rinse roots to remove soil, then dry in a warm, well-ventilated area or dehydrator at 95-105°F for 1-2 weeks. Store dried roots in airtight containers away from light. Roots can be harvested before flowering for best potency. Allow some plants to reseed for continuous harvests.

Fun Facts

🌱 Valerian root has a distinctly musty, earthy odor that many find unpleasant—some compare it to old gym socks—yet this is actually a sign of high-quality, potent roots.
🌱 Valerian has been used in traditional medicine for over 2,000 years; the ancient Greeks and Romans valued it, and it was recorded in medieval herbals across Europe.
🌱 Cats are attracted to valerian in a manner similar to catnip; rubbing dried roots on toys can create natural cat enrichment toys.

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