Overview
Centranthus angustifolius is a columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Centranthus, part of the Caprifoliaceae family, with semi-evergreen foliage. Centranthus angustifolius grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include coastal gardens, cottage gardens, gravel gardens, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Centranthus angustifolius is a semi-evergreen cultivar of the Centranthus genus, known for its columnar upright habit. As a member of the Caprifoliaceae family, it thrives in full sun and is well suited to south- or west-facing, exposed sites. This plant prefers well-drained, fertile soils such as chalk, loam, or sand with an alkaline to neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is ideal for coastal, cottage, and gravel gardens, as well as wildlife gardens and flower borders. Its season of interest spans summer and autumn, with propagation by seed sown in spring or division in early spring.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Centranthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Centranthus angustifolius size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial, Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Coastal gardens, Cottage gardens, Gravel gardens, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Centranthus angustifolius
- Propagation
- Seed sown in spring, Division in early spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Centranthus angustifolius?
Centranthus angustifolius prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Centranthus angustifolius need?
Centranthus angustifolius is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Centranthus angustifolius hardy in the UK?
Centranthus angustifolius has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Centranthus angustifolius?
Seed sown in spring, Division in early spring.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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More in the Centranthus genus
- Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus'red valerian 'Atrococcineus'

- Centranthus ruber 'Coccineus'Red Valerian
