Centranthus ruber aka Red Valerian

Taxonomy

Centranthus ruber, also known as the red valerian, spur valerian, kiss-me-quick, fox's brush, devil's beard, or Jupiter's beard, is a popular and hardy garden plant. It can be grown as a short-lived perennial or an annual with a woody base and grey-green leaves. From early summer to early autumn, it produces dense clusters of tiny, fragrant white flowers that add a wonderful splash of vivid color to any garden. This low-maintenance plant has an impressively long bloom time and is a great choice for cottage gardens, as it can grow in the cracks of chalky walls and pavers. Additionally, its deep roots make it suitable for preventing soil erosion on slopes. With its strong, sweet fragrance, the red valerian attracts a variety of pollinators, making it a delightful addition to any garden or bouquet.

Common names

Red Valerian, Jupiter's Beard, Fox's Brush

How to care for Red Valerian

Difficulty

Red Valerian requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Red Valerian prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Red Valerian to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Region of origin

Red Valerian’s native range is Europe. Naturalized in Britain[17].


More info:
Wikipedia