The most important types at a glance

click fraud protection

More than 200 kinds

There are more than 200 types of valerian around the world. Around 20 of these species are native to Europe. Here are a few examples with their Latin name and area of ​​distribution.

also read

  • Valerian: where is the perfect location?
  • When the valerian is in full bloom ...
  • Valerian - grow this medicinal herb yourself
Surname Latin name Distribution area (s)
Real valerian Valeriana officinalis Europe, Asia
Creeping medicinal valerian Valeriana procurrens Germany
Three-leaf valerian Valeriana tripteris Southern Europe
Tuberous valerian Valeriana tuberosa Southeast Europe, West Asia
Narrow-leaved valerian Valeriana wallrothii Germany, Austria
Rock Valerian Valeriana saxatilis Switzerland to Albania
Mountain Valerian Valeriana montana Central to Southern Europe
Western valerian Valeriana occidentalis United States
Small valerian Valeriana dioica Europe to Central Asia, USA, Canada
Sharp-leaved valerian Valeriana acutiloba United States
Heady valerian Valeriana capitata Alaska, Canada, Russia
Indian nard Valeriana jatamansi Afghanistan, India, China
Real Speik Valeriana celtica Alps

All types of valerian have the following features in common:

  • belong to the genus of valerian plants
  • are more or less curative
  • Roots have a strong smell
  • have a sleep-promoting and relaxing effect
  • contain essential oils
  • contain alkaloids

The best known valerian: Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis is also known as real valerian. It is common in Europe, but also occurs in Siberia, Russia, China and Japan, among others. He prefers sunny to partially shaded locations with moist soils.

Its herbaceous growth rises 1 to 2 m high. The lush green, unpaired feathered ones leaves grow up to 20 cm long and consist of lanceolate individual leaves. the Heyday lasts from May to July.

Other valerians that play an important role as useful plants

These types of valerian are also known:

  • Genuine Speik: 15 cm high, spike-shaped flowers from June to August, yellowish to red-brown
  • Indian spikenard: up to 60 cm high, loves dry ones Locations, pink flowers in June
  • Small valerian: 35 cm high, umbrella-shaped from May to June, white to pink flowers

Tips

Valerian is also often referred to as cat's herb, Valerian witch's herb.

Sign up to our newsletter

Pellentesque dui, non felis. Maecenas male