plant

Common valerian

Valeriana officinalis

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Common valerian (Valeriana officinalis) — a plant, for Full sun, Medium water. Companions: Tomato, Apple.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Watermedium

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomassmedium
Nectarattracts pollinators

Companions

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceEmergence of new growth in spring after the last frost and when soil temperatures rise above 5°C.
floweringFlowering typically occurs in early summer, triggered by lengthening days.
senescenceFoliage dies back with the first autumn frosts.
dormancyEnters dormancy after senescence, lasting through winter.

Soil interactions

Drainagemoist but well-drained
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatespotassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium
Soil textureloam, clay, sandy
Organic matterMedium
Compaction toleranceMedium

Propagation

Methodsseed, division
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~1 yr
Stratificationcold_moist
Self-seedingModerate
Divisionspring_autumn

Wildlife & pests

Attractspollinators, beneficial insects
Can host diseasesrust, powdery mildew