Edible Valerian
Valeriana edulis
Last reviewed: July 2026
Valeriana edulis (Edible Valerian) is a native Wisconsin forb that blooms June through August with white flowers. This adaptable plant attracts bees and beetles while tolerating various light and moisture conditions.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–48" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Valeriana edulis is a native perennial forb that grows 1-4 feet tall with fragrant white or pink flower clusters that bloom throughout summer. This clump-forming plant prefers partial sun and moderate moisture, making it adaptable to various garden conditions. The aromatic foliage and showy flower heads add both fragrance and visual interest to native plantings.
Growing Edible Valerian
Grow Edible Valerian in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Edible Valerian takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Unfamiliar appearance may be seen as weedy
- Can become somewhat sprawling in habit
- May look untidy when not in bloom
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract bees and beetles, providing nectar and pollen during peak growing season. The dense flower clusters make this an excellent choice for supporting local pollinators.
Common questions
- When does Valeriana edulis bloom?
- Valeriana edulis blooms from June through August, producing clusters of small white flowers that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Edible Valerian?
- Bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of Valeriana edulis, visiting the flowers for nectar and pollen during the summer blooming period.
- Where is Valeriana edulis native?
- Edible Valerian is native to Wisconsin and other parts of the upper Midwest and western North America.
- What growing conditions does Edible Valerian prefer?
- Valeriana edulis tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and adapts to various moisture levels, making it a versatile native plant choice.
- Is Edible Valerian HOA-friendly?
- Edible Valerian takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Edible Valerian? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz