Valerian

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a perennial flowering plant in the family Caprifoliaceae, native to Europe and southwestern Asia. It grows up to 1.5 m (5 ft) tall, with erect, usually unbranched stems and pinnately divided leaves. From June to August, it produces sweet‑scented, pale pink to white flowers (2.5–5 mm) in clustered heads. The plant inhabits wet and dry meadows, woodlands, and marshes. Valerian root extracts are used in dietary supplements for mild sedative and sleep‑promoting effects, though evidence is mixed; it also induces a catnip‑like response in cats. The species is considered potentially invasive in parts of North America (e.g., Connecticut, New Brunswick).