Valerian
Valeriana officinalis 
Perennial, Zone 3
Full to Partial Sun
Nature’s Best Sedative
48”-78” Tall
Plant 12”-18” Apart
 
Nature’s Best Sedative. Valerian has been recorded as being used medicinally since at least the time of the ancient Greeks. 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.