Red valerian - Centranthus ruber (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Red valerian

Also known as: Fox's brush, Kiss-me-quick, German Lilac, Spanish Valerian

Red valerian (Centranthus ruber) is a perennial shrub that is comfortable in alkaline conditions and can even be found growing from limestone mortar in castle walls. Its leaves and roots are occasionally incorporated into salads or made into soup. But these plants are red valerian should not be confused with true valerian and has no demonstrated medicinal value.

Scientific classification

Species

Red valerian (Centranthus ruber)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Mid fall, Late fall

Harvest Time

60 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

45 cm to 75 cm

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

2 cm

Flower Size

Red, Pink, White, Purple

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Red, White, Pink

Stem Color

Images of Red valerian

Culture

Garden Use

Bushy and long-lasting red flowers are what makes red valerian (Centranthus ruber) a popular ornamental plant. This plant grows well in beds and borders and also in containers. Red valerian is suited to several types of gardens including coastal, cottage, and traditional styles. Catmints, veronicas, and blue iris make an excellent contrast when grown with this plant.

Symbolism

Love, Sleep, Purification, strength, health

Name Story

Red valerian: Even though this wildflower is commonly known as Red Valerian, the flowers are not always red. Sometimes, the flowers can also be pink and other times, creamy white too. Its specific epithet, ruber comes from Proto-Italic meaning red. As the Subfamilia of this plant is Valerianoideae, it is called Red Valerian.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Red valerian, including the following common varieties :

Red valerian

Quickly Identify Red valerian

Bluish-green foliage

Rounded spikes with reddish-pink flowers

Versatile in different garden settings

Cold hardy to 15-20°F (-9 to -6°C)

Self-sowing tendency manageable by removing spent blooms

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Care Guide for Red valerian

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Red valerian, native to the Mediterranean, prefers dry, rocky soils and well-drained conditions. Water weekly, adjusting during the growing season to support flowering. Though it thrives with occasional rainfall, red valerian is adaptable to periods of drought, making it suitable for gardens and borders.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, fertilize red valerian with balanced fertilizers in spring to early fall, applying quarterly. Use caution to avoid overfeeding, as red valerian thrives in less fertile soils. Adjust feeding frequency in cooler months and water thoroughly after applying to ensure nutrient distribution.

Pruning: Red valerian thrives with proper pruning, which includes removing faded flowers and trimming leggy stems. Best done from early to late spring, this practice enhances air circulation, disease prevention, and promotes lush foliage, ensuring a robust and vibrant plant.

Propagation: Red valerian propagates best in spring and summer using stem cuttings. It has moderate propagation difficulty, with successful indicators including new growth and root development. Periodic misting is essential for successful propagation.

Repotting: Repot red valerian every 2-3 years in spring, using a larger pot with good drainage. Ensure adequate moisture without overwatering for recovery. Red valerian is resilient and requires no extraordinary care once established, reaching a height of up to 90 cm in a bushy form.

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Images of Red valerian

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Red valerian

Care Guide for Red valerian

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