Valerian

I first noticed valerian, valeriana officinalis, in our area in 1985.  It is a perennial which begins to bloom in early July and continues into August.  As it matures it forms a purple head.  The plant grows up to 4-5 feet in height.  I first observed it as an occasional occupant of roadside ditches, but it has spread greatly and now is seen covering large fields in our area.  Valerian was originally planted as a garden flower.  It has been used as a medicinal herb for the treatment of nervousness and hysteria.