Contents
Description
Valeriana pauciflora is a plant species that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. It is commonly known as the few-flowered valerian and is native to the Himalayas, China, and Southeast Asia. The plant is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall and has a woody base. Its leaves are basal, long-stalked, and pinnate. The flowers are small, pinkish-white, and bloom from May to August. The plant has a sweet fragrance and is often used in traditional medicine for its sedative properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Valeriana |
Appearance
Valeriana pauciflora is a perennial herb that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has a woody base and basal leaves that are long-stalked and pinnate. The leaves are dark green and have a lanceolate shape. The flowers are small, pinkish-white, and bloom from May to August. The plant has a sweet fragrance and is often used in traditional medicine for its sedative properties.
Care Guide
Valeriana pauciflora is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers moist soil and partial shade but can tolerate full sun. Here are some tips for caring for your Valeriana pauciflora:
- Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Valeriana pauciflora in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Valeriana pauciflora is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Valeriana pauciflora is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if the plant is grown in humid conditions. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Valeriana pauciflora:
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves of Valeriana pauciflora. It appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and can be controlled with a fungicide.
Habitat
Valeriana pauciflora is native to the Himalayas, China, and Southeast Asia. It grows in alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and forests at elevations of 2000-4500 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Valeriana pauciflora a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Valeriana pauciflora is often used in traditional medicine for its sedative properties.
Q: Does Valeriana pauciflora require full sun or partial shade?
A: Valeriana pauciflora prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Valeriana pauciflora?
A: Valeriana pauciflora is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Q: Can Valeriana pauciflora be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Valeriana pauciflora can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough water.
Related Plants
- Valeriana officinalis
- Valeriana celtica
- Valeriana sitchensis
References
- Flora of China. (2011). Valeriana pauciflora. In Wu, Z. Y., Raven, P. H., & Hong, D. Y. (Eds.). Flora of China. Science Press, Beijing, and Missouri Botanical Garden Press, St. Louis.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Valeriana pauciflora. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d339
- United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). PLANTS Profile for Valeriana pauciflora. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=VAPA3
