The valerian family (Valerianaceae) is a family consisting of mostly herbaceous plants, but sometimes also shrubs. The family contains 350 species in 7 genera and is mainly found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and the Andes. They are often characterized by a strong unpleasant odor. Some varieties are cultivated as ornamental plants or used in herbal medicine.
The genus Valeriana contains the greatest number of species. Its flower heads have a strong sweet, unpleasant odor that attracts cats.
The botanical name is derived from the Latin 'valere' = to be strong / powerful, which refers to the smell.
In Belgium and the Netherlands two species occur in the wild: marsh valerian (Valeriana dioica) and valerian (Valeriana officinalis).
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Image of Valeriana officinalis by Mamdy G.
On this map you find all the locations of transcribed records of the project "Valerianaceae (III)".
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