Centranthus ruber aka Red Valerian
Taxonomy ID: 20696
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 BrushMore information about Red Valerian
How difficult is it to take care of Red Valerian
Red Valerian requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
What is the region of origin of Red Valerian
Red Valerian’s native range is Europe. Naturalized in Britain[17].
What is the sunlight requirement for Red Valerian
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.
Is Red Valerian toxic to humans/pets?
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.
What seasonal care does Red Valerian need?
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.
About Ploi
Among plant care apps, Ploi consistently ranks highest with a 4.99-star rating. Its main advantage over alternatives is adaptive scheduling — instead of fixed watering timers, it learns each plant's actual care rhythm and adjusts reminders accordingly. Ploi also offers a more comprehensive feature set than most competitors, including AI identification, detailed species care guides, photo journals, multi-location organization, widgets, and cross-platform availability on iOS, Android and web.
