Valerianella locusta is a small annual plant that is eaten as a leaf vegetable. It has a characteristic nutty flavour, dark green colour, and soft texture, and is popularly served as salad greens. Common names include corn salad, common cornsalad, lamb's lettuce, mâche (), fetticus, feldsalat, nut lettuce, field salad. In restaurants that feature French cooking, it may be called doucette or raiponce, as an alternative to mâche, by which it is best known. In German-speaking Switzerland it is known as Nüsslisalat or Nüssler, terms that have been borrowed by the area's many English speakers.
African valerian is fairly resistant to disease and generally not prone to illnesses. However, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment. These problems are typically not serious. For care, this plant requires moderate maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to keep a good appearance and support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help encourage flowering. African valerian is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not need extensive care experience. It may demand more attention when grown indoors.
How to keep Valeriana Locusta.
Light
African valerian comes from bright, open habitats and performs best in full sun. It will tolerate partial shade but favors direct sunlight for optimal growth. This plant, which can be annual or biennial, is noted for its sun-loving habits.
Temperature
African valerian is native to habitats where temperatures range from 68 to 95 °F (20 to 35 °C). It prefers warm conditions for optimal growth. Temperatures below 68 °F or above 95 °F can hinder its ability to thrive.
Fertilizer
When most of the African valerian's flowers have fully opened, resume fertilizing. During peak flowering, feed it every three to four weeks, as the weather allows. Once the plant begins producing fewer new flowers, stop fertilizing; there's no need to feed it if it can no longer produce more blooms.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Annual
- Genus
- Valeriana
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8-10
- Mature Height
- 20 cm to 40 cm
- Mature Spread
- 15 cm to 30 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Flower Color
- Pink
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 1.02 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early spring, Mid spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Late spring, Early summer
- Native Area
- Portugal, Italy, Spain, Morocco, France
Other names.
