Red Valerian (Centranthus)

Centranthus ruber (Jupiter's Beard) is a long-blooming European wildflower that is easy-to-grow and provides ample nectar for butterflies.

Preferred growing conditions:

• Centranthus grows well in a wide range of soil types, including clay.
• It can be mulched in dry climates with a variety of mulch types, including gravel in waterwise landscapes (xeriscapes).
• After the second growing seasons, it only requires deep but infrequent watering. Take care not to overwater established plants.
• Plant in full or part sun conditions. (Plants can become floppy if planted in part shade and watered too much.)
• Adding just a few handfuls of compost and Yum Yum Mix to the planting hole is enough. This plant doesn't like a rich, highly-amended soil.

Special comments:

• Centranthus is a willing re-seeder and can become a bit weedy in a moist garden. Deadheading after the late spring/early summer flush of flowers will reduce unwanted seedlings.

Garden care:

• Fertilize Centranthus just once in fall with Yum Yum Mix and Planters II.
• In moister climates, cut back the stems to a height of 2-3" inches in late fall to prevent rotting of stems and foliage.
• In dry western regions, wait until mid-spring to cut them back.