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Description
Valeriana Congesta Subsp. Congesta, also known as the mountain valerian, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. It is native to the Alps and other mountainous regions of Europe, where it thrives in damp meadows and rocky slopes. This plant has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times, as it is known to have sedative and calming effects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Valeriana |
Appearance
The Valeriana Congesta Subsp. Congesta plant can grow up to 60 centimeters in height and has a wide, bushy shape. Its leaves are deeply lobed and are arranged in a rosette at the base of the stem. The flowers are small and white, and are arranged in dense clusters at the end of the stems. The plant blooms from June to August, and its root system is rhizomatous.
Care Guide
Valeriana Congesta Subsp. Congesta requires regular watering, especially in hot and dry weather. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilization should be done in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, and is hardy in zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Valeriana Congesta Subsp. Congesta plant is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and leaf spot diseases. It is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and to remove any infected leaves as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease. Insecticidal soap and neem oil can be used to control pests.
Habitat
The Valeriana Congesta Subsp. Congesta plant is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, where it thrives in damp meadows and rocky slopes. It can also be found in subalpine and alpine zones. This plant prefers cool temperatures and moist soil, and is often found near streams and other bodies of water.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Valeriana Congesta Subsp. Congesta be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with adequate drainage and moisture.
Q: Is Valeriana Congesta Subsp. Congesta toxic to pets?
A: While this plant is not toxic to pets, it may cause stomach upset if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Valeriana Congesta Subsp. Congesta be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, this plant has been used for its sedative and calming effects since ancient times.
Q: How often should Valeriana Congesta Subsp. Congesta be fertilized?
A: This plant should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Valeriana officinalis
- Valeriana wallichii
- Valeriana edulis
- Valeriana jatamansi
References
- “Valeriana Congesta.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 20 April 2021.
- “Valeriana Congesta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 April 2021.
- “Valeriana Congesta Subsp. Congesta.” Alpine Garden Society. Accessed 20 April 2021.
