Overview
Centranthus ruber 'Albus' 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 'Albus' 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 'Albus' is a white-flowered cultivar of red valerian, a semi-evergreen herbaceous perennial in the Caprifoliaceae family. It has a columnar upright habit, growing between 0.5 and 1 metre tall with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full height in 2 to 5 years. Native to Flanders, this drought-resistant plant thrives in full sun on well-drained alkaline or neutral soils such as chalk, loam, or sand. It is suited to exposed, south- or west-facing aspects and provides interest during spring and summer.
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 'Albus' 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
- Fragrance
- Mildly fragrant flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Centranthus ruber 'Albus'
- Cultivation
- Prefers full sun and well-drained alkaline or neutral soils. Drought tolerant once established. Suitable for exposed sites and coastal conditions. Avoid waterlogged soils.
- Pruning
- Cut back hard in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth and maintain shape.
- Propagation
- Seed sown in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Centranthus ruber 'Albus'?
Prefers full sun and well-drained alkaline or neutral soils. Drought tolerant once established. Suitable for exposed sites and coastal conditions. Avoid waterlogged soils.
Where is the best place to plant Centranthus ruber 'Albus'?
Centranthus ruber 'Albus' prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Centranthus ruber 'Albus' need?
Centranthus ruber 'Albus' 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 do I prune Centranthus ruber 'Albus'?
Cut back hard in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth and maintain shape.
How big does Centranthus ruber 'Albus' grow?
Centranthus ruber 'Albus' 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 'Albus' hardy in the UK?
Centranthus ruber 'Albus' 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 'Albus'?
Seed sown in spring.
More in the Centranthus genus
Browse all Centranthus →
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