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 BrushHow 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
Red Valerian requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Red Valerian will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
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
