Overview
Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' is a perennial in the genus Centranthus, part of the Caprifoliaceae family. It typically grows around 0.9 m tall. Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and cottage gardens. It is native to Flanders.
About
Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' is a perennial treasured for its massed red flowers and summer-long display. It grows to about 0.9 m and favours a sunny aspect in the garden. Plant in freely draining soils — sandy, loamy or even clay that drains — and give it full sun exposure. Flowers appear from June to September.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Valeriana rubra
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.
In the garden
Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' is a perennial in the Caprifoliaceae family, native to Flanders, grown primarily for its red summer blooms. Plants typically reach around 0.9 m and carry their flowers through the main summer months, from June to September. Choose a sunny site with full‑sun exposure and soil that does not remain waterlogged: this cultivar tolerates sandy, loamy or clay soils provided they are well drained or at least moist but well drained. In UK hardiness terms it is H7 (fully hardy), and it is also suited to USDA zones 5–8, so it will withstand winter conditions across most of the British Isles when sited in sun and good soil. Use Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' in mixed borders, rock gardens or cottage-style plantings where a mid-height perennial with summer colour is required. Its stature makes it useful towards the middle or rear of a border and in gravel or lean soils where drainage is good. Expect a clear seasonal run of blooms and plants to attain about 0.9 m at maturity.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Centranthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- Sunny
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 0.9 m
- Suggested uses
- Borders, rock gardens, cottage gardens
- Native to
- Flanders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth
- Propagation
- Seed, division, cuttings
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus'?
Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established.
Where is the best place to plant Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus'?
Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' need?
Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus'?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
How big does Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' grow?
Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' reaches a height of 0.9 m.
Is Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' hardy in the UK?
Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Centranthus ruber 'Atrococcineus'?
Seed, division, cuttings.
