Red valerian, or Centranthus ruber, is a low-maintenance perennial with bright red, pink, or white flowers that blooms for a long period. Native to the Mediterranean, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, can tolerate poor conditions, and self-seeds easily, making it a popular plant for garden walls and rocky areas. It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies and is also known as Jupiter's Beard.
Botanical and growing facts
Botanical Name: Centranthus ruber
Common Names: Red valerian, Jupiter's Beard, Keys of Heaven
Native Range: Mediterranean region
Growth Habit: Herbaceous perennial, grows to about 2-3 feet tall and 18-24 inches wide, with a woody base as it matures.
Flowers: Dense clusters of small, star-shaped flowers that are typically red, pink, or white. They bloom from late spring through autumn.
Leaves: Opposite, oval, and pale green.
Soil: Prefers well-drained, alkaline soil, but is very adaptable and tolerates poor soil conditions.
