Can anyone identify this plant please?

[timtam23]

This nice plant has taken root in an alley round the corner and I'm trying to find out its name as it looks quite hardy (I am looking for fairly indestructible plants for a school garden). Can anyone help please? it has quite distinctive leaves but I can't ID it after a quick search myself.

[echt]

It's valerian. Very tough and attractive, though I have to say some of the ones I've sniffed smell like, well, shit.

Don't let that put you off.

[Trumpton]

Valerian officinalis it's everywhere this year here .

[timtam23]

Wow that was quick, thank you both! It sounds ideal for a school garden. Tough is what I'm looking for as it will have to withstand footballs etc, am not too bothered about the smell!

[DeidreChambersWhatACoincidence]

I can see you have the answer thanks to helpful mumsnet.

But just wanted to mention an App I've just downloaded called PlantSnapp. You take a photo and they identify your plant. It's brilliant

[timtam23]

Thank you Deirdre I will definitely use that app as well as MN!