CENTRANTHUS

Commonly known as Valerian

A common, introduced perennial, evocative of old cottage gardens. It is found on dry banks, cliffs and old walls as it can tolerate the lime in mortar.

Genus of 8-12 annuals and perennials from dry, sunny slopes in southern Europe, the Mediterranean, northwestern Africa and southwestern Asia.

C. ruber is the only species in common cultivation and comes in white and shades from pale rose-pink to dark crimson.

Very beneficial to insects but if bruised or damaged releases a rank odour.

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Herbaceous - Early in the year, typically January till end of March, herbaceous plants might be supplied in 9cm pots to ensure timely despatch. - annuals, perennials and some subshrubs. Erect, branched stems, funnel-shaped red or white flowers.
Full sun - at its best on old walls or stony banks.
Additional Features - Good to know - - wildlife plant - bees, butterflies, moths, insects. Deadhead to prolong flowering.
Medicinal properties - often confused with Valeriana officinalis (common valerian), the medicinal native.
Pests & Diseases - none.
Place of origin - southern Europe, Mediterranean, northwest Africa, southwest Asia. Naturalised in UK.
Soil Conditions - Neutral to alkaline soil -
Well drained, dry, poor to moderately fertile soil
Wildlife - Bee friendly -

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Centranthus - Growing Guide

Growing Centranthus ruber

Herbaceous Plants - Video Collection

Buy Varieties of CENTRANTHUS

CENTRANTHUS ruber 'Albus' >

Commonly known as: Bouncing Bess, Drunken sailor, Red valerian.

White form

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Multibuy

individually £12.50 each , 3+ £10.00 each

CENTRANTHUS ruber 'Coccineus' >

Commonly known as: Bouncing Bess, Drunken sailor, Red valerian.

Red flowering form of this attractive plant which readily naturalises itself in banks and hedgerows in coastal areas

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Multibuy

individually £12.50 each , 3+ £10.00 each

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Available Early Spring 2022 - Spring according to the Met office is defined as March 1st - May 31st. Therefore early spring is early March to mid-April. This is not a guaranteed date but an estimate and subject to availability.