Red Valerian (Centranthus ruber)

Red Valerian

Centranthus ruber

Clusters of tiny pink blooms paint borders with soft summer charm. Herbaceous perennial; common names: Red Valerian, Spur Valerian.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, direct sunlight and tolerates light shade in hot summer regions
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Watering Water deeply once weekly during prolonged dry spells; highly drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; tolerates summer heat up to 35°C, with optimal growth between 15–25°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Gray-green, oval to lanceolate leaves with a soft, slightly fuzzy texture
  • Flower: Dense terminal clusters of tiny star-shaped pink, red, or white blooms with a faint, sweet scent
  • Stem: Erect, branching stems with a slightly succulent, fleshy texture
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Care Guide

Watering

Water weekly during dry periods; allow top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to prioritize flower production over foliage growth

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface every 2 months to add calcium without overfertilizing
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters regularly to encourage prolonged blooming
  • Cut back stems to ground level after flowering to promote compact new growth the following season
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental border plant; attracts pollinators including bees and butterflies