Overview
Valeriana dioica is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Valeriana, part of the Caprifoliaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Valeriana dioica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow, city and courtyard gardens, coastal, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Valeriana dioica, commonly known as marsh valerian, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial within the Valeriana genus, which includes annuals, perennials, and evergreen shrubs. This deciduous plant produces terminal clusters of small flowers in spring and summer, thriving best in fertile, moist but well-drained loam soil under full sun or partial shade, preferably in sheltered, west- or south-facing aspects. It is hardy to UK zone H4 and suits a variety of garden settings, including wildflower meadows, cottage gardens, and coastal areas.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Valeriana
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Valeriana dioica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Valeriana dioica
- Propagation
- Seed, Basal cuttings, Division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Valeriana dioica?
Valeriana dioica prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Valeriana dioica need?
Valeriana dioica grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Valeriana dioica hardy in the UK?
Valeriana dioica has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Valeriana dioica?
Seed, Basal cuttings, Division.
More in the Valeriana genus
- Valeriana alliariifolia
- Valeriana phugolden spikenard
- Valeriana saxatilis
- Valeriana tuberosamountain spikenard
- Valeriana sitchensis subsp. sitchensis