SafePlants

Centranthus ruber: Red Valerian

Centranthus ruber, commonly known as red valerian, is a popular perennial garden plant admired for its vibrant flowers and ease of care. Other common names include spur valerian, kiss-me-quick, fox's brush, and Jupiter's beard.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that it is a robust, fleshy herb.

Considerations for Children

• It can self-seed easily.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Centranthus ruber
• Family: Valerianaceae
• Synonyms: Pretty Betsy

Distribution and Habitat

• Originally introduced from Southern Europe.
• Now widespread and found growing on walls, cliffs, waste ground, and roadside locations.
• Well-suited for coastal gardens.

Ecological Role

• Can be considered invasive in some regions due to its ability to self-seed and spread readily.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Herbaceous perennial reaching up to 80cm in height, with upright stems.
• Deep green foliage. Leaves are lanceolate to oval, pointed or blunt.
• Dense clusters of deep pink, almost crimson, or white fragrant flowers. Flowers are funnel shaped.

Cultivation

• Thrives in well-drained soil that is poor to moderately fertile, ideally chalky or stony.
• Demonstrates good drought resistance.
• Prefers full sun.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Attracts bees and butterflies.
• A favorite food plant for adult hummingbird hawkmoths.

Quirky Facts

• One source mentions the alternative name of 'Spur Valerian' refers to the spurs on the flower, often hidden in the dense flower head.
• One source mentions being called "cat's wee" in Devon.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden
• Monrovia
• Crocus
• Jacksons Nurseries