Red Valerian (Centranthus Ruber) is a popular and beloved flower that is easy to grow and popular with gardeners. It blooms profusely from early summer to fall, producing dense clusters of crimson star-shaped flowers and blue-green foliage that grows up to three feet tall. Red Valerian is perfect for adorning your garden or rockeries, as their flowers brighten any landscape.
The name Centranthus Ruber comes from the Latin phrase Centrum Anthus which means “flower of the center”. Centranthus Ruber is from the Valerianaceae family and is a perennial plant, meaning it will bloom again each year.
How to Plant
Red Valerian can be grown in most areas, as it is quite tolerant of a wide range of conditions. It prefers areas with well-drained, rich soil and full sun to partial shade. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 6.0-7.0. Red Valerian can survive in a variety of temperature ranges, but prefers a cooler climate such as found in northern parts of Europe and the United States.
When planting Red Valerian, it is important to provide adequate water, as they are not drought resistant. To ensure success, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer when planting and mulch around the base of the plant before the first frost of winter. Red Valerian also benefits from regular pruning, as this will help encourage more plentiful blooms.
Meaning and Symbolism
Red Valerians have traditionally been viewed as symbols of love and admiration. In ancient Greece, the flower was often viewed as a symbol of patience, as its name suggests. In traditional Chinese medicine, Red Valerian was used as a treatment for insomnia and anxiety. Centranthus Ruber has often been used as an expression of respect, health, and good luck.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
Red Valerian has a long history in many cultures. In ancient Greece and Rome, the plant was used to symbolize courage and strength in battle, with soldiers carrying the plant with them in to battle. In the Middle Ages, the flower was used to ward off evil spirits, and in England, it was thought to bring luck. In the Christian faith, it was seen as having a special connection with the Virgin Mary.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
Centranthus Ruber comes in many varieties, each with its own unique characteristics. The varieties include ‘Cardinalis’, which has larger, more pronounced crimson star-shaped flowers; ‘Albus’, a white-flowered variety; ‘Maximus’, a larger plant with large white flowers; and ‘Humilis’, the dwarf variety.
How to Pot and Repot
When potting and repotting Red Valerian, it is best to use a well-draining potting soil and a larger pot than the one in which you have already potted the plant. Make sure to add adequate amounts of fertilizer to encourage stronger root growth. The root system of Red Valerian is quite sensitive, so handle the roots gently when transferring the plant from one pot to the next.
How to Prune
Pruning is an important step for Red Valerian. Pruning should be done in the early spring, before the new growth begins. When pruning, make sure to only remove dead or diseased branches, as this will help maintain the health of the plant The centranthus Ruber should be cut back by roughly one-third, and any excess dead or overly vigorous branches can be removed completely.
How to Propagate
The easiest way to propagate Centranthus Ruber is by division. Simply dig up the entire plant, and divide the root system into smaller clumps with a sharp knife or shovel. Plant the divisions in a new area and water them well. You can also take cuttings from your existing plant and allow them to root in a damp paper towel or pot.
Common Pests and Diseases
Red Valerian is fairly resistant to pests and diseases, though it is susceptible to spider mites, slugs, and aphids. To help control these pests, you can use an insecticide or an insecticide soap. Red Valerian is also vulnerable to fungal diseases such as root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. To help prevent these, make sure there is proper air circulation around the plants and avoid overwatering.
Three Frequently Asked Questions About Centranthus Ruber
Q: How large do Red Valerian plants get?
A: Red Valerian can reach up to three feet tall under optimum growth conditions.
Q: What color are the flowers?
A: The Red Valerian produces bright crimson star-shaped flowers.
Q: When do Red Valerian flowers bloom?
A: The Red Valerian blooms from early summer to late fall.
A Table Fact Sheet
Flower | Red Valerian |
Centranthus Ruber | |
Family | Valerianaceae |
Plant Type | Perennial |
Mature Size | 3 feet |
Sun Exposure | Full sun/part shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, rich soil |
Soil pH | 6-7 |
Bloom Time | Early summer to late fall |
Flower Color | Crimson |
Hardiness Zones | 4-8 |
Native Area | Mediterranean |
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