Valerian extract or the capsule for promoting sleep is probably known to many people, but the perennial is probably much less so. Honeysuckle is quite decorative and useful. Read this article about where real valerian comes from and how you can grow it.
Where does valerian come from?
The original homeland of real valerian extends from Europe far into Asia. Only in Portugal there are no natural deposits. The herbaceous plant copes well with almost any soil and is therefore quite widespread.
Where does valerian grow in the wild?
In the wild, real valerian (bot. Valeriana officinalis) likes to grow in wet meadows or along bodies of water. The original distribution area of the frost-resistant and robust honeysuckle plant extends from Europe to the Far East to Siberia and India. Valerian prefers a sunny or partially shaded location.
Where can valerian be grown?
Valerian can be grown well inmedium or large gardens. Due to its size of around two meters high and one meter wide, it needs enough space to be effective. In a small garden, you should definitely set up a root barrier, otherwise the rhizomes will spread unhindered and harass the neighboring plants. If you want to grow valerian on the balcony, then it should be watered there regularly. It is best to place the young plant in a large pot.
What does valerian need to thrive?
Valerian needssufficient sunandslightly moist soil to thrive. In the right place it is very easy to care for. However, you should water potted plants regularly and sufficiently. In contrast to many other plants, valerian tolerates ordinary drinking water quite well because it likes calcareous soil. Compost is suitable for fertilizing. Especially potted plants or older perennials in the bed should be supplied with this occasionally.
How can I use valerian?
Some parts of the valerian are best usedfresh,others driedYou can harvest the first leaves in the first year if Your valerian has already developed well. The decorative flowers only appear in the second year. They can be used fresh as an edible decoration or dried to make tea.
Tip
Valerian as a useful and medicinal herb
Valerian is not only used in natural medicine as a sleep-promoting and calming herb, but is also often used in the kitchen. The sweet-smelling flowers are ideal as an edible decoration, and the young leaves taste delicious in a fresh salad. You can dry the valerian root and use it for tea.
