Valerian, << vuh LIHR ee uhn, >> is a large family of herbs and shrubs. Valerians are found chiefly in the temperate (mild) regions of the Northern Hemisphere. There are hundreds of species (kinds) of valerians. They include both annuals (plants that live one growing season) and perennials (plants that live more than two growing seasons). Some species are grown as garden or border flowers. Others are used for flavoring food or for medicinal purposes.
One group of valerians has highly fragrant roots and rhizomes (underground stems). The small, fragrant flowers of these valerians may be white, pink, or rose. The plants can reach a height of nearly 5 feet (1.5 meters). The most important species in this group is the common valerian, also called garden heliotrope. The dried roots and rhizomes of this plant are used in medicine as a sedative and in cooking as a flavoring.
Two species of annual valerians grown for their edible leaves are corn salad and Italian corn salad. Both grow about 1 foot (30 centimeters) high. Corn salad has blue flowers, and Italian corn salad has pink flowers. Both are easily grown in spring and fall.
