Description
This perennial herb originated in Europe and Asia, though now it is widespread due to escape from cultivation. It grows to about 2-6ft (60-1.2m) high and is quite robust. Its hollow, furrowed, slender stem bears opposite, pinnate, pointed, variable leaves with 10-25 lanceolate, serrate leaflets. Small, scented, rose to pink-white to white flowers appear in wide, flat-topped clusters spring to early summer. The tuberous, yellow-brown rootstock smells bad to humans but cats and rats seem to love it. In days gone by it was used as rat-bait.

Cultivation

Site:	Prefers full sun to light shade and a rich, moist loam. Shady, woody areas are good as it likes its roots cool but its leaves warm. Can be grown indoors.
Propagation:	Sow in spring. Push seeds into the ground but do not brush the soil over. Divide root in spring/autumn.
General Care:	Thin/transplant to 2ft (60cm) apart.
Harvest:	Dig up root in late summer to autumn of the second season.

Preserve: Dry the root. Chop it finely to make sure it dries throughout.

Warning: Do not take too much or for too long - no longer than 2 weeks without a break. Do not taking if on such medication as that which causes sleep. Symptoms of overdosing on valerian are similar to poison shock, including headaches, muscle spams, palpitations, delusions, in some cases severe drowsiness, in others restlessness.