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Description
Valeriana Celtica, also known as Alpine Valerian, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Caprifoliaceae. It is commonly found in the temperate regions of Europe, such as the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians. The plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and has a dense, fibrous root system. Valeriana Celtica has been used for medicinal and ornamental purposes for centuries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Valeriana |
Appearance
Valeriana Celtica has a basal rosette of leaves that are green and lobed. The stem of the plant is erect and branching, and it produces small, fragrant, pink or white flowers in clusters. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stem and are pinnate, with toothed or lobed leaflets. The flowers bloom from June to August and are followed by small, brown, ovoid fruits.
Care Guide
Valeriana Celtica is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:- Water: Valeriana Celtica prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Valeriana Celtica prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can tolerate full shade.- Hardiness Zones: Valeriana Celtica is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Valeriana Celtica is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. Some common pests that may infest this plant include aphids, spider mites, and slugs. To prevent these issues, avoid overwatering, maintain good air circulation around the plant, and remove any infected or damaged plant parts.
Habitat
Valeriana Celtica is commonly found in the temperate regions of Europe, such as the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians. It grows in meadows, rocky slopes, and open woods at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters. The plant prefers cool, humid conditions and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Valeriana Celtica edible?
A: While Valeriana Celtica is not commonly used for culinary purposes, the leaves and roots of the plant can be consumed as a medicinal herb.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Valeriana Celtica?
A: Valeriana Celtica has been traditionally used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and nervous disorders. It is believed to have sedative, anxiolytic, and antispasmodic properties.
Q: Can Valeriana Celtica be grown indoors?
A: While Valeriana Celtica prefers outdoor growing conditions, it can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights.
Q: Is Valeriana Celtica a rare plant?
A: Valeriana Celtica is not considered a rare plant, but it is not commonly cultivated in gardens or nurseries.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants in the Valeriana genus:- Valeriana officinalis (Common Valerian)- Valeriana edulis (Chinese Valerian)- Valeriana jatamansi (Indian Valerian)- Valeriana wallichii (Himalayan Valerian)
References
– “Valeriana Celtica.” Plants For A Future. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Valeriana+celtica- “Valeriana Celtica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h600- “Valeriana Celtica.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/4530/Valeriana-celtica/Details
