VALERIANA montana
Small
Part shade
Sun
Pink
White
Moisture retentive soil
Reasonable soil
Well drained soil
Spring
Summer
Pollinator friendly
100% Peat Free
Description
Valeriana montana
Height x Spread: 40cm x 30cm
This is a very hardy and long lived rhizomatous, woody based perennial that grows in a clump form and can be used as ground cover. Originating in Europe it has a natural range from Spain to Italy and normally grows in open woods and on the rocky slopes of the Alps, Pyrenees and Apennine mountain ranges. Fully hardy in the UK, it will tolerate most soils but will actually flower best in poorer soils.
The plant forms a basal rosette and erect stems clothed in olive green leaves and domed heads of small, pink, white or lilac flowers from April to June. Attractive to pollinators, it is generally pest and disease free. Pruning should be minimal, and mostly used to improve the shape of the plant.
Ideal for open sunny or partially shaded sites, it lends itself to inclusion in wildlife, informal, cottage and rock or scree gardens.