Valerian
Valeriana officinalis 
Perennial, Zone 3
Full to Partial Sun
Nature’s Best Sedative
48”-78” Tall
Plant 12”-18” Apart
 
This flower can grow wildly in Massachusetts, but is an important medicinal to add to your repertoire.  Valerian has been recorded as being used medicinally since at least the time of the ancient Greeks. Unlike many of our other medicinal herbs, it is the root of Valerian that will prove itself most useful to you.  Throughout the ages it has been used as a sedative and antidote to insomnia, soothe anxiety, relieve pain, lower blood pressure and prevent hemorrhage. The flower extracts were used as a perfume and will still attract butterflies to your garden today.   Harvest the root in the fall of the second year after the foliage has begun to yellow and die back to the ground. Clean the roots with water and cure in the shade.