Vascular Plants of the Gila Wilderness

Presented in Association with the
Western New Mexico University Department of Natural Sciences

Valeriana edulis Nuttall ex Torrey & Gray
(Edible Valerian, Tobacco Root)

Family: Caprifoliaceae, formerly Valerianaceae

Status: Native

Synonyms:
Valeriana trachycarpa Rydberg

Valeriana edulis has basal leaves that are usually pinnatifid, but can be entire. The stems can be a meter or more tall, and the flowers, which are in a broadly open panicle, are minute. The flowers have five petals, but only 3 stamens. Valeriana edulis is found in middle and upper elevation meadows.
Please click on an image for a larger file.



Valeriana edulis, photo Russ Kleinman, Bill Norris & Mark Donnell, Mogollon Mtns., Bursum Road at Redstone trailhead, Aug. 4, 2007



Valeriana edulis, detail of flowers, photo Russ Kleinman, Richard Felger & Kelly Kindscher, Black Range, McKnight Mtn., July 21, 2008



Valeriana edulis, basal leaves, photo Russ Kleinman, Pinos Altos Range, Signal Peak Turnoff, July 12, 2009



Valeriana edulis, 2x field macro of flowers, photo Russ Kleinman, Pinos Altos Range, Signal Peak Turnoff, July 12, 2009


Back to the Index