Sitka Valerian
Valeriana sitchensis
Family: Caprifoliaceae
What it is like
A smooth herb. The rootstock is fleshy. The leaves are opposite and have leaflets along the stalk. The flowering stems are 40-80 cm high. They can occur singly or as a few together. The small white flowers occur in a rounded head. The fruit is dry and has feathered bristles.
Also put in the family Valerianaceae.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows in alpine regions in the Rocky Mountains.
Countries/locations it is found in
Alaska, Canada, North America, USA
How it is used for food
The thick rootstock is used for food. It needs to be well cooked. The seeds are eaten.
Edible parts
Root, seeds
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
American valerian, Scouler's Valerian