Valeriana officinalis VALERIAN (10 seeds)

Valerian is a fast-growing perennial herb from the Valerianaceae family. Its Latin name means "to be in good health." It measures between 80 cm and 1.20 m in height. Its foliage disappears completely in winter.

It is native to a vast area covering Europe and temperate Asia. It is naturally found in cool, damp environments, such as forest edges, marshy meadows, or riverbanks. It has since become naturalized in many other regions of the world, notably in North America.

Valerian foliage consists of large leaves divided into several narrow, serrated segments. These leaves grow in pairs along the stem and display a beautiful deep green color. Their feathery appearance gives the plant a light, bushy look that is very natural in a flowerbed.

Its flowering manifests as wide umbels formed by numerous small flowers pressed close to one another. These terminal clusters feature delicate shades ranging from pure white to very pale pink. They release a sweet, suave fragrance throughout the summer.

The floral stems are hollow and can rise more than a meter in height above the rest of the vegetation. They proudly bear these flowery domes which contrast with the fineness of the leaves located at their base.

Valerian seeds from Valeriana officinalis are light brown, rather long and thin, blowing away easily to colonize new locations.

- Uses:

Valerian exerts an irresistible attraction on cats, who rub themselves euphorically against its fragrant roots. This surprising reaction is caused by actinidine, a natural molecule that mimics feline sex pheromones.

By promoting deep sleep, this plant is reputed to intensify the clarity and memorization of oneirogenic dreams. It allows access to a more stable REM sleep phase, often making nocturnal experiences more vivid.

Its sedative and anxiolytic properties are widely recognized for soothing nervousness and facilitating natural sleep. It also acts as an effective muscle relaxant, helping to reduce physical tension linked to daily stress.

Do not consume without medical advice.

- Germination, sowing of seeds:

• The period for sowing valerian is from March until the end of April.
• Sow the seeds in a tray of fine potting soil.
• Cover them to a depth of 1/2 cm.
• Gently pack the soil by hand.
• Water copiously by spraying.
• Place the culture in a relatively warm spot where the temperature must be at least 25°C.
• Germination will generally begin 3 to 4 weeks after sowing.

- Soil type:

Valerian prefers deep, fertile, and cool soils, with a predilection for humus-rich earth.
However, it adapts to various terrains, provided they are well-drained and do not dry out completely during the summer.

- Exposure:

This herb appreciates exposure to full sun or partial shade, depending on the intensity of the local heat.
A partially shaded situation helps maintain foliage moisture and prevents the plant from wilting prematurely.

- Growing temperature:

Perfectly hardy, Valeriana officinalis withstands harsh winters and significant frosts down to -15°C without requiring special protection. However, it fears extreme heatwaves associated with dry air, preferring temperate and cool climates.

- Water requirements:

Its water needs are regular because it fears a lack of moisture at the root level. Consistent watering is essential during the summer period to keep the soil cool and guarantee vigorous growth. Mulching at the base of the plant is recommended to limit watering.

- Reproduction method:

Multiplication is carried out in two ways, either by sowing or by dividing the plants in early spring.