Centranthus ruber 'Coccineus'
Common Name: Red Valerian, Jupiter's Beard
Once valued as a cut flower, Centranthus went out of style for a while, but is back in full force once again as people realize how easy it is to grow. A foolproof perennial, this is a good choice for beginners.
Centranthus is an exceptionally long-blooming perennial that will grow in dry, limey soils. Fragrant, tiny carmine-rose florets cluster together to form dense, showy heads which are held above the gray-green, upright, bushy masses of foliage. This show goes on from early to late summer in most regions, except in cooler regions where the bloom period may be extended to early fall.
Centranthus is especially attractive when grown in sunny, naturalized areas, in the crevices of stone walls, or in cottage gardens. It is a favorite of butterflies.
