Centranthus ruber
red valerian
A woody-based perennial, sometimes grown as a biennial, with grey-green leaves and dense clusters of crimson, pink or white, slightly fragrant flowers from late spring to autumn
Other common names
foxfox's brush
see moreGerman lilac
pretty Betsy
Spanish valerian
spur valerian
Jupiter's beard
kiss-me-quick
Synonyms
Centranthus ruber 'Pretty Betsy'Valeriana 'Coccinea'
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red Pink White | Green Grey Silver | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red Pink White | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Red Pink White | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
ExposedDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Centranthus may be annuals or perennials, with usually simple, opposite leaves and terminal clusters of small, trumpet-shaped flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, Medit.
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a well-drained soil that is poor to moderately fertile, ideally a chalky or stony soil. Good drought resistance; thrives on walls and in coastal gardens. Needs full sun to flower well.
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Gravel garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut down stems in autumn or if self-seeding is a problem then cut back hard in July after their first flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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