Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)

Five Bees Farm grows valerian (Valeriana officinalis) for its root and rhizome, and supplies dried valerian root wholesale to UK trade buyers. We’re working towards Soil Association organic certification (target 2028), so buyers looking for a future UK source of organic valerian root can plan ahead with us.

Valerian at a glance

• Common name: valerian, common valerian

• Latin name: Valeriana officinalis (family Caprifoliaceae, formerly Valerianaceae)

• Part supplied: root and rhizome

• Grown at: Five Bees Farm, near Woolsery, North Devon

• Harvest: autumn, from the second growing year

• Planned formats: cut dried root, powder

• Organic status: working towards Soil Association certification (target 2028)

How we grow valerian

Valerian is a hardy perennial that likes moist soil in sun or part shade, which suits our North Devon conditions well. We grow it in no-dig raised beds mulched with compost and woodchip, which also makes the roots easier to lift cleanly. Flowering stems are removed so the plant puts its energy into the root.

Harvest and handling

Valerian roots are lifted in autumn from the second growing year, after the foliage has died back. Each crown is dug carefully to keep the fibrous root mass, then washed thoroughly to remove soil.

Drying and processing

Washed roots are cut to an even size and dried on the farm at low temperatures. Valerian root develops its strong, distinctive aroma as it dries, so we pack it in sealed, odour-proof packaging and store it apart from our other herbs.

Formats for trade buyers

• Cut dried valerian root

• Valerian root powder (planned)

Who buys our valerian root

UK-grown valerian root suits herbalists and tincture makers, supplement and nutraceutical manufacturers, pet product makers (valerian is widely used in cat toys for its scent), equine feed and supplement makers, and herb wholesalers.

Provenance and traceability

Root crops take two years or more to reach harvest, so we encourage early conversations about forward supply. Every batch is coded to its bed, planting year, lifting date and drying record.

Valerian root FAQs

How long does valerian take to grow before harvest?

We lift roots in autumn from the second growing year onwards, so planting decisions are made well ahead of supply.

Can I reserve part of a future harvest?

Yes. Because valerian is a slow crop, we welcome early conversations about volumes and reserving supply.

Is valerian suitable for equine competition products?

That’s a formulation and regulatory decision for the brand. Valerian is restricted under equestrian competition rules, so equine formulators should check the current FEI and British Horseracing Authority rules.

Request a valerian root sample

Email hello@fivebeesfarm.co.uk to register interest in UK-grown dried valerian root or to discuss forward supply.