Three-winged valerian
valeriana tripteris
Also known as: ["Three-winged valerian"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, known for its delicate, fragrant flowers and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Valeriana |
| Botanical Name: | Valeriana tripteris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed with rich soil
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light but prefers bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Adjust for seasonal light changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; place in dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; provide filtered light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Use diluted fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone if used.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with root initiation.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within a few months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, moist propagation medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems; remove dead or damaged growth; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Valeriana tripteris prefers slightly crowded roots but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Increase frequency during active growth in spring and summer; reduce in fall and winter.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in cold climates; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stagnate in temperatures above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicValeriana tripteris is slightly toxic to cats if ingested. The plant's active compounds can lead to mild gastrointestinal disturbances or sedation in felines. Cats may be more sensitive to these effects due to their unique metabolism.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicValeriana tripteris can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested. The plant contains compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or sedation in canines. While not typically life-threatening, ingestion should be monitored, especially in small or sensitive breeds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicValeriana tripteris is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption of its roots and rhizomes may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of volatile oils and valepotriates. The plant has been traditionally used for its sedative and anxiolytic properties, but caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Valeriana tripteris toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Valeriana tripteris?
A: It has been traditionally used for its sedative and calming properties.
Q: How should Valeriana tripteris be cared for?
A: It prefers partial shade, moist soil, and moderate maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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