western valerian (Valeriana occidentalis)

Family: Valerianaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Valeriana occidentalis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour, it needs to be steamed for 24 hours. — A strong flavour, it needs to be steamed for 24 hours.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist open or shaded places, from foothills to rather high elevations in the mountains. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)