Valeriana ferax

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Synonyms

• Phyllactis ferax

Sources: Wikidata

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta and the class Equisetopsida. Within the subclass Magnoliidae, it follows the order Dipsacales and is a member of the family Caprifoliaceae. Finally, its taxonomic identity is defined by the genus Valeriana.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant exhibits a specific distribution pattern within the continent of Southern South America. It is primarily found across key regions of Argentina. Specifically, its presence is noted in the Northeast part of the country. Additionally, the species can be located within the Northwest territory of Argentina. Therefore, its geographical range is concentrated in these distinct Argentinean zones.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Valeriana ferax is characterized by its specialized habitat requirements within high-altitude environments, specifically occupying a narrow ecological niche defined by its altitudinal distribution. This species is strictly adapted to montane or alpine zones, maintaining a precise elevational range that begins at a minimum of 2100 m AMSL and extends to a maximum of 2300 m AMSL. This limited vertical span suggests that the plant is highly sensitive to the specific temperature gradients, atmospheric pressure, and soil moisture levels found within this 200-meter elevational band. Such specialized distribution patterns often imply a dependency on the unique climatic conditions and substrate compositions typical of these specific high-elevation strata.

Elevational range max:

2300 m AMSL

Elevational range min:

2100 m AMSL

Life history

The life history of Valeriana feraxt is characterized by its status as a perennial plant, meaning it undergoes multiple growth cycles throughout its existence. As a perennial species, it does not complete its life cycle in a single growing season like annuals, nor does it typically die after flowering in its second year like biennials; instead, it establishes a persistent root system that allows it to survive through various seasonal changes. This perennial nature enables the plant to accumulate energy and resources over time, often resulting in more robust growth and more significant reproductive efforts in subsequent years. The plant's lifecycle involves recurring phases of vegetative development followed by flowering periods, ensuring its long-term presence and stability within its natural habitat.

Lifecycle :

perennial

Morphology

The morphology of Valeriana ferax is characterized by its growth form as a non-woody herb, specifically categorized as a forb. As a terrestrial plant, it does not exhibit aquatic or semiaquatic tendencies, nor does it function as an epiphyte. The plant is entirely independent in its nutritional requirements, lacking any parasitic tendencies. Structurally, it is a self-supporting organism that does not possess climbing habits, such as vines or lianas, and maintains a stable, upright posture without the need for external support.

Aquatic :

terrestrial

Climber :

self-supporting

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Growth form :

herb

Parasite :

independent

Woodiness :

non-woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Activities

Valeriana ferax has 2 reported activities identified across 0 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Anxiolytic, Sedative.

Anxiolytic

1. Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)

Sedative

1. Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)