Mountain Valerian

Valeriana uliginosa

Physical Characteristics

Valeriana uliginosa is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Quebec to New York and Michigan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antispasmodic Poultice The root is analgesic, antispasmodic[254, 257]. It is used in the treatment of cramps, menopausal problems, headaches, sore throats and coughs[254, 257]. Large doses of the plant cause mental stupor[257]. A poultice of the crushed root has been applied to cuts and wounds[257].

Known Hazards

Some caution is advised with the use of this plant. At least one member of the genus is considered to be poisonous raw[161] and V. officinalis is a powerful nervine and sedative that can become habit-forming.