• Sitka Valerian (Valeriana sitchensis) displays dense clusters of delicate white flowers, each with star-like petals and extended stamens that give them a lacy appearance. These blossoms are held on tall, slender stems that rise above the surrounding vegetation, creating a striking contrast against the deep green foliage.
  • The Sitka Valerian (Valeriana sitchensis) displays soft pink buds opening into white blooms, with a hint of blush still visible in the emerging flowers. These clustered heads rise above the broad, bright green leaves, creating a soft contrast in the rocky alpine setting.
  • Nestled beside a large rock, the Sitka Valerian (Valeriana sitchensis) sends up leafy stems topped with dense pinkish flower clusters. The vibrant green foliage spreads low, while the tall flower stalks stand ready to attract pollinators in this sunny meadow.
  • Sprawling across the forest floor, the Sitka Valerian (Valeriana sitchensis) forms a loose colony of leafy stems topped with creamy white flower clusters. The soft, lush leaves create a dense green carpet punctuated by these rounded blooms.
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Wild About Flowers

Valeriana sitchensis - Sitka Valerian

Valeriana sitchensis - Sitka Valerian

$5.00 CAD
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Sitka Valerian is a tall, elegant perennial with clusters of fragrant, pale pink to white flowers that bloom from late spring into summer. A valuable nectar source for a wide range of pollinators, including native bees, butterflies, and moths, its broad, clustered blooms serve as perfect landing pads for larger insects, while seeds are occasionally eaten by small birds. Deeply lobed green leaves form a lush base, while sturdy stems rise above, adding height and bringing a wild, graceful charm to naturalized gardens and restoration plantings.

Thriving in cool, damp environments, Sitka Valerian spreads by rhizomes to create dense stands. It is common along streambanks, forest edges, moist meadows, and in rich soils at mid to high elevations. Moderately deer resistant, the coarse leaves and strong-smelling roots reduce palatability, though young shoots may be browsed in early spring.

Bloom Times & Plant Sizes

Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom.  The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.

Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer

The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.

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Plant Specifics

Seeds Per Pack

Seeds Per Package: 15

Light Conditions

  • Sun
  • Part Shade

Soil Conditions

  • Moist
  • Rich
  • Well Drained
  • Loam
  • Clay

Height

  • 12" - 24"
  • 24" - 36"
  • 36" - 48"

Width

  • Spreading

Bloom Colour

  • White
  • Pink

Month of Bloom

  • April
  • May
  • June

Vigorousness

  • Fast
  • Aggressive

Deer Resistance

  • Moderate

Features

  • Birds
  • Butterflies
  • Bees
  • Fragrant
  • Fall Color
  • Rural Spaces
  • Medicinal Properties

Chinook Exposure

  • Moderate

Distribution Info

Widespread across the western mountains of North America, Sitka Valerian is found in AB, BC, and the YT and including the Pacific Northwest, northern U.S. Rockies, and into Alaska. It thrives in moist, open or wooded areas at mid to upper elevations in the mountains, often in wet meadows.

Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info

Traditionally, Indigenous peoples cooked and ate the roots of Valeriana sitchensis, despite their strong scent, and some tribes used the roots to make a poultice. Medicinally, Valerian species have been used to encourage sleep, improve sleep quality, and reduce blood pressure.