Va-le-ri-a-na'se-e. L. Valerian-a + aceae, fr. Valerianus or Valerius, who first used it in medicine - valere, to be strong, healthful - i. e., its odor and medicinal virtues. Herbs. Distinguished by possessing a strong-scented volatile oil; leaves opposite, exstipulate; calyx superior, tube adnate to ovary; corolla mostly 5-lobed, tubular, epigynous; stamens 1-4, inserted on corolla-tube; ovary, 1 fertile cell, 2 abortive or empty; fruit dry, often pappose; temperate climates; stimulant, antispasmodic, tonic (vol. oil).

Genus: 1. Valeriana.