Valeriana edulis, the tobacco root or edible valerian, a species in the family Caprifoliaceae, is a dioecious perennial flowering plant native to western and central North America. Despite its common name, tobacco root is not closely related to tobacco, but is instead more closely related to elderberry, honeysuckle, and teasel (Caprifoliaceae s.l.).
Tobacco root has moderate resistance to disease but can be susceptible to problems like leaf spot. Its susceptibility to insect pests varies by variety, although most types are relatively less resistant to pests. For care, tobacco root requires regular watering and fertilization, and yellow leaves should be pruned frequently. It is important to manage pests and diseases as they arise and to harvest the plant in a timely way. Tobacco root is appropriate for someone who can dedicate some time and effort to regular maintenance.
How to keep Valeriana Edulis.
Light
Tobacco root comes from habitats with ample sunlight, such as open fields and sunlit meadows. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.
Temperature
Tobacco root prefers moderate temperatures, about what most people find comfortable. It grows best in conditions that are neither too warm nor too cold. The primary concern with high temperatures is the risk of sunburn, so in summer it is advisable to provide some shade to avoid overheating. When temperatures fall, Tobacco root goes dormant; if continuous growth is wanted, warmer conditions must be maintained in winter. Frost can damage the plant and should be avoided.
Fertilizer
Tobacco root species do well with one or two uses of organic fertilizers that supply potassium and phosphorus. Apply the fertilizer before planting, work it into the soil and water thoroughly. Usually a single application is enough, but a second can be applied after seedlings have become established. Avoid overusing fertilizer, as that can damage the plants.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Valeriana
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-8
- Mature Height
- 0.3 m to 1.22 m
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall
Other names.
