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 attractive to pollinators and drought resistant. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, coastal, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden and mediterranean climate plants.
About
Centranthus ruber 'Albus' is a perennial that may also be cultivated as a biennial. It features greyish-green foliage and produces clusters of small white blooms during late spring and into summer.
About the genus
Centranthus can be either annuals or perennials, characterized by typically simple, opposite leaves and clusters of small, trumpet-shaped blooms arranged at the tips of the stems.
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
- Wildlife gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Centranthus ruber 'Albus'
- Cultivation
- Grow in a well-drained soil that is poor to moderately fertile, ideally a chalky or stony soil. Good drought resistance; thrives on walls and in coastal gardens. Needs full sun to flower well.
- Pruning
- Cut down stems in autumn or if self-seeding is a problem then cut back hard in July after their first flowering
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed sown in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Centranthus ruber 'Albus'?
Grow in a well-drained soil that is poor to moderately fertile, ideally a chalky or stony soil. Good drought resistance; thrives on walls and in coastal gardens. Needs full sun to flower well.
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 down stems in autumn or if self-seeding is a problem then cut back hard in July after their first flowering.
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 a UK hardiness rating of H5.
How do I propagate Centranthus ruber 'Albus'?
Propagate by seed sown in spring.
Is Centranthus ruber 'Albus' good for pollinators?
Yes — Centranthus ruber 'Albus' attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.