Wildflower of the valley
Hardwicke's Valerian
Valeriana hardwickii
- How easy to find
- Very rare — you need to search for it — local knowledge helps
- Flower size
- Small to medium
- Family
- Rubiaceae (Madder family)
- Local name
- Samaya
- Type
- Perennial
- Height
- 25–60 cm
- Flower colour
- red
- Flowering
- June to Mid August
About Hardwicke's Valerian
Valeriana hardwickii is perennial erect herb of 25 to 60 cm tall. Root stocks are fibrous. Leaves are opposite, odd pinnate. Flowers are white and can occasionally pinkish, small. They are crowded in an axillary and terminal cymes.
Where to find it
- Near the entrance of the valley
- In the middle of the valley
Habitat
Undergrowth of forests, way sides and particularly along streams.
Uses & folklore
Locally the roots are used for the treatment of urinary disorders, joint pains. Whole plant is used in the alleviation of epilepsy, hysteria, insect bites and neurosis. Leaves are used in skin diseases. In Nepal roots are used for the treatment of cough, epilepsy and rheumatism, low blood pressure. In china the roots are used as an aphrodisiac.
What the name means
Valeriana comes from Latin valere ("to be strong"), after the herb's medicinal potency; hardwickii honours General Thomas Hardwicke, an early collector of Indian natural history.
More photos
Valeriana Hardwickii is a rare botanical gem flourishing in high-altitude terrains, drawing attention for its exotic shape and ecological… 
Valeriana Hardwickii adds a magical touch to natural parks and trails, making it a perfect find for floral explorers and photographers…
