How to Grow Valerian
Valeriana officinalis
Valerian is a vigorous, fully hardy perennial that thrives in most soils with minimal care. Give it a reasonably moist, well-drained site in full sun to partial shade. Tall stems may need staking in exposed positions. Deadhead spent flowers diligently to prevent rampant self-seeding. Cut back to the ground in autumn. The root scent is intensely attractive to cats — be prepared.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Rarely needs feeding. A light balanced fertiliser in spring on poor soils is sufficient. Overfed plants produce lush growth but fewer flowers.
Watch For
- Aphids
- Powdery mildew
- Self-seeding (can become invasive)
Companions
Tomatoes, Brassicas, Roses
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Tolerates a range of light conditions. Flowers best in full sun but handles partial shade well, especially in warmer climates. Avoid deep shade.
Watering
Moderate; keep soil moist but well-drained
Water regularly during establishment and dry spells. Once established, valerian is reasonably drought-tolerant. Avoid waterlogged soil.
Fertilizing
Rarely needed; light feed in spring on poor soils
Apply a light balanced fertiliser in spring on very poor soils only. Rich feeding produces excess leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Deadhead to prevent self-seeding; cut back in autumn
Remove flower heads before seeds set to control spread. Cut all stems to ground level after the first autumn frosts.
Spacing
60–90 cm apart
Space 75 cm apart to allow for mature spread. Provides good air circulation to reduce risk of mildew.
Support
Stake in exposed sites
Stems can reach 150 cm. Support with canes or ring stakes on windy or exposed sites.
Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 75 cm |
| Row spacing | 90 cm |
| Mature height | 150 cm |
| Mature spread | 60 cm |
