Valerian edulis, June 23, 2020
Valerian acutiloba, June 18, 2020
Common & scientific name
Edible valerian & Sharpleaf valerian, Valeriana edulis & V. acutiloba
Family
Valerian, Valerianaceae
Location
Lower Lost Man, 10,500’
Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact
Valerian is famous in part for its roots, which when cooked are appealing in the way that tobacco is (it is also commonly known as “Tobacco root”): that is, very appealing to some, almost nauseating to others. It’s really just as fun to look at. The flowers of Edible valerian, found in sunny meadows primarily in our montane and subalpine zones, are white and need to be viewed up close to be appreciated (left), as they are usually obscured by its plant’s tall stature (below). Sharpleaf valerian, on the other hand, is a smaller plant with soft-pink flowers that can be found into the alpine (left below). It is less common in our area than its cousin Edible.
V. edulis, June 23, 2020