Uses
Toxic parts
Some caution is advised with the use of this plant. At least one member of the genus is considered to be poisonous raw
[1] and V. officinalis is a powerful nervine and sedative that can become habit-forming.
Edible uses
Notes
Seed
[2]. No further details are given but the seeds of other members of this genus are parched and then eaten.
An essential oil from the leaves and root is used as a flavouring in ice cream, baked goods, condiments etc[3]. The leaves can also be used as a condiment[4].
The plant is used in moderation as a herbal tea
[3].
Material uses
An essential oil is obtained from the roots and the leaves, it is used in perfumery
[5][4].
The dried root attracts rats and can be used as a bait to lure them away from other areas[6].
An ingredient of 'QR' herbal compost activator
[7]. This is a dried and powdered mixture of several herbs that can be added to a compost heap in order to speed up bacterial activity and thus shorten the time needed to make the compost[K]. The plant can also be used to make a very good liquid plant feed
[8][9]. It attracts earthworms
[8][9].
The whole plant, but especially the root, is antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, hypnotic, nervine (powerful), sedative, stimulant
[4]. Use with caution
[10].
Ecology
Ecosystem niche/layer
Ecological Functions
Nothing listed.
Forage
Nothing listed.
Shelter
Nothing listed.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring in a cold frame and only just cover the seed because it requires light for germination
[11]. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and plant out into their permanent positions in the summer if sufficient growth has been made. If the plants are too small to plant out, grow them on in the greenhouse or frame for their first winter and plant them out early in the following summer.
Division in spring. Larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found that it is best to pot up smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a greenhouse or cold frame until they are growing away well. Plant them out in the summer or the following spring.
Practical Plants is currently lacking information on propagation instructions of Valeriana toluccana. Help us fill in the blanks! Edit this page to add your knowledge.
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus.
Succeeds in ordinary garden soil[12].
Dioecious, male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.
Crops
Problems, pests & diseases
Associations & Interactions
There are no interactions listed for Valeriana toluccana. Do you know of an interaction that should be listed here? edit this page to add it.
Polycultures & Guilds
There are no polycultures listed which include Valeriana toluccana.
Descendants
Cultivars
Varieties
None listed.
Subspecies
None listed.
Full Data
This table shows all the data stored for this plant.
Taxonomy
Binomial name
Valeriana toluccana
Imported References
Material uses & Functions
Uses
Material uses
None listed.
Medicinal uses
None listed.
Ecosystems
Native Climate Zones
None listed.
Adapted Climate Zones
None listed.
Native Geographical Range
None listed.
Native Environment
None listed.
Ecosystem Niche
None listed.
Root Zone Tendancy
None listed.
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