Valeriana sambucifolia
Valeriana sambucifolia · Caprifoliaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant valeriana sambucifolia: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Summer (June to August)
- Mature size
- 60 to 120 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate to fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- South America (Andes)
- Soil type
- Fertile, well-drained, rich in organic matter
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist without waterlogging, especially during growth and flowering. Reduce watering in winter depending on natural rainfall. Water at the base to avoid foliage moisture that promotes disease.
Light exposure
Place the plant in partial shade or partial sunlight. It tolerates light shade but flowers best with at least 4 to 5 hours of indirect light per day.
Soil preparation
Enrich the soil with compost or well-decomposed potting soil before planting. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot in winter. Light mulching in autumn protects the rhizomes.
Pruning and cutting
Remove faded stems after flowering to encourage new growth. In late autumn, cut the plant back to ground level or leave dead leaves as protection for underground parts during winter.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring when growth resumes. A second diluted application in early summer can support flowering, but stay moderate as excess promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
Watch for powdery mildew and downy mildew in case of prolonged humidity; ensure good air circulation around the plant. Aphids may occasionally infest it. Good hygiene and targeted watering at the base prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Valeriana sambucifolia takes its name from its leaves that resemble those of elder (sambucus). Used traditionally by Andean communities, wild valerian has long been associated with the calming properties of the Valerianaceae family.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- HoneysuckleLonicera periclymenum
- Small scabiousScabiosa columbaria
- Red valerianCentranthus ruber
- Japanese honeysuckleLonicera japonica
- Himalayan honeysuckleLeycesteria formosa
- Involucred honeysuckleLonicera involucrata
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.