74. BOOK OF THE SCENTED GARDEN 
February, when roads and lanes are redolent with its 
Heliotrope-like perfume. It is a dreadful weed in 
many Irish gardens. 
Valerian (Valeriana wallichii).—Now and then used as an 
aromatic, and in medicine more rarely as a stimulant 
and antispasmodic. The dried root of Valeriana 
officinalis is very attractive to cats, and is said to be 
employed by rat-catchers to decoy their victims to their 
traps. V. celtica has fragrant rhizomes used in toilet 
mysteries like Sumbul. 
Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia, V. aromatica, and other species). 
—The fruits or beans are long and dark brown, or 
chocolate-coloured, and possess a very strong aroma, 
flavour, and perfume. The essential flavouring 
principle of Vanilla can now be made artificially from 
Pine-tree sawdust. Both the natural and the chemical 
products are used for flavouring chocolate and other 
sweetmeats. Vanilla is sometimes adulterated with 
Tonquin Bean extract. 
Vegetable Wax or Candleberry (Myrica cerifera).—The 
fruits are coated with a waxy resin from which 
aromatic candles are, or were, formerly made in 
America. 
Verbena officinalis (Vervain, Herb of Grace). 
Vetiver (Andropogon schenanthus)—The oil of Andro- 
pogon is sometimes called ‘‘Indian Geranium” oil, 
having a citrine odour. Used to adulterate attar-de- 
rose and in the manufacture of cheap perfumes. Used 
in India for screens or ‘‘ Cuscus tatties.” 
Violet odours.—The well-known Sweet Violet (Viola 
odorata) in all its forms, also present in some Orchids 
and in ‘‘ Orris” root (Iris florentina and other species). 
Violets and Iris are largely grown in Italy, Sicily, 
Sardinia, and South France for the perfume trade, All 
the race of Garden Violas or ‘‘ Tufted Pansies” are 
sweet and exquisite garden flowers. <‘ Violetta,” and 
