Red Valerian (Centranthus Ruber) - Elegant Garden Perennials
Red Valerian (Centranthus ruber), also known as Jupiter’s Beard, is a resilient perennial known for its clusters of bright crimson-pink blooms and airy, branching habit. It thrives in poor, rocky soil where many plants struggle, making it an excellent choice for sustainable gardens or difficult sites. The plant’s gray-green foliage forms a tidy mound that produces flowers from late spring through early fall, drawing bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the season. Long flowering and drought tolerant once established, Red Valerian adds reliable color to borders, rock gardens, and retaining walls with little maintenance required.
Applications in the Garden
Ideal for rock gardens, dry slopes, and gravel beds where soil fertility is low
Works well at the front or middle of mixed perennial borders for a soft, natural look
Excellent for cottage gardens and pollinator habitats due to its long bloom season
Performs beautifully in coastal gardens, tolerating salt and wind
Useful for softening stone walls, walkways, or steps where it can spill naturally
Suitable for xeriscaping or water-wise plantings
Planting Tips - Red Valerian
Choose a sunny location; Centranthus flowers best in full sun
Plant in well-draining soil — it prefers slightly alkaline or neutral conditions
Avoid heavy clay or overly rich soil, which can lead to weak, floppy growth
Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow good airflow and prevent mildew
Water lightly after planting, then reduce watering once roots establish
Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering and prevent excessive self-seeding
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Centranthus Ruber |
| Variety Name: | Ruber Roseus Rosy Red |
| Height: | 24″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 4-9 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring |
| Bloom Season: | Summer – Fall |
| Bloom Cycle: | Deadhead for continuous rebloom |
| Bloom Duration: | 2-4 weeks |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Average or sandy, medium moisture, well-draining soils. Thrives in poor soils |
| Water Requirements: | Average |
Troubleshooting Red Valerian
Leggy or sparse growth – occurs when grown in shade; relocate to a sunnier site
Excessive self-seeding – remove faded flower heads before seed set if natural spread isn’t desired
Poor flowering – often due to overly fertile soil; avoid feeding and improve drainage
Root rot or dieback – may occur in soggy ground; amend soil or plant on a slope for runoff
Yellowing leaves – can indicate overwatering or compacted soil reducing drainage
FAQ - Red Valerian
Q: Is Red Valerian invasive?
A: In some mild coastal climates, Red Valerian can self-seed freely, but it is not typically considered invasive when managed through deadheading.
Q: Is Red Valerian deer resistant?
A: Yes. Deer generally avoid it due to its mildly aromatic foliage.
Q: Is Red Valerian toxic to pets or people?
A: Red Valerian is considered non-toxic to humans and most pets, though it is not intended for consumption.
Q: How long does Red Valerian bloom?
A: With regular deadheading, plants can bloom continuously from late spring through early autumn.