It usually grows as a [[subshrub]] though it can take any form from a [[herb]] to a [[shrub]] depending on conditions. Plants usually get woody at the base. Leaves are generally 5-8 cm long with a shape that changes from the bottom to the top of the plant, the lower leaves being petioled while the upper leaves are sessile. Red Valerian flowers profusely for a long period, in any shade from the more common purplish reds to white. The inflorescences are large and showy, with a strong rank scent: they are pollinated by [[bee]]s and [[butterfly|butterflies]], with the plant known for attracting insects. | It usually grows as a [[subshrub]] though it can take any form from a [[herb]] to a [[shrub]] depending on conditions. Plants usually get woody at the base. Leaves are generally 5-8 cm long with a shape that changes from the bottom to the top of the plant, the lower leaves being petioled while the upper leaves are sessile. Red Valerian flowers profusely for a long period, in any shade from the more common purplish reds to white. The inflorescences are large and showy, with a strong rank scent: they are pollinated by [[bee]]s and [[butterfly|butterflies]], with the plant known for attracting insects. |