Overview
Centranthus ruber is a columnar upright annual biennial in the genus Centranthus, part of the Caprifoliaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Centranthus ruber grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is drought resistant. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, coastal, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds. It is native to Flanders.
About
Centranthus ruber, commonly known as red valerian, is a columnar upright herbaceous perennial belonging to the Caprifoliaceae family. It typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full height within 2 to 5 years. This semi-evergreen plant thrives in full sun on well-drained chalk, loam, or sand soils with neutral to alkaline pH. Native to Flanders, it is drought resistant and is best suited to south- or west-facing, exposed locations, offering seasonal interest in both spring and autumn.
About the genus
Valeriana is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caprifoliaceae, members of which may be commonly known as valerians. It contains many species, including the garden valerian, Valeriana officinalis.
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 ruber size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial, Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Coastal, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
- Native to
- Flanders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Centranthus ruber
- Propagation
- Seed sown in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Centranthus ruber?
Centranthus ruber prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Centranthus ruber need?
Centranthus ruber 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.
How big does Centranthus ruber grow?
Centranthus ruber reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Centranthus ruber hardy in the UK?
Centranthus ruber 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 ruber?
Seed sown in spring.
More in the Centranthus genus
Browse all Centranthus →
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