What is Red Valerian?
Red Valerian is a common name for Centranthus ruber , an easily growing, old-fashioned perennial that produces bright clusters of small, star red, pink or white flowers above blue-green leaves. It is originally from Europe and parts of Africa, but is grown in flower gardens around the world. The common names for this plant include Jupiter's beard, drunken sailor and keys to heaven. They do not require a lot of water or care and will spread quickly, sometimes to the extent that they will become invasive. This can be discouraged immediately by removing the dead flowers because the red valerian sows. Seed heads are similar to the head of dandelion and are carried in the wind. They will become voluntary seedlings and the following year they will appear everywhere if these plants can set the seed. A 3 feet (91 cm) in height, making it a good choice for the back of the garden border. They are ideal for wild and cottages, where they have enough space to spread. They should be planted where they are most of the dayexposed to bright sunlight for optimal flowering and growth and brightest color.
When red valerians become very large, they can be easily divided and created several smaller plants. They should be connected and cut back so that the stems are about 6 inches (about 15 cm) high than they are dug. These garden plants form strong, deep roots, so it is important to dig deep and get as much root system as possible. The roots should be cut into at least two sections with a sharp knife, although multiple divisions can be cut if the roots are very large. These pieces can be immediately set in a sunny location and should be kept connected until they are introduced.
It is also easy to grow these permanent plants from seeds. The seeds should hardly be covered with rich soil and maintained moist until they bleed, which lasts about two weeks. Seedlings should be planted outside, kdsThe night temperatures do not fall under freezing, because Red Valerian does not survive extremely low temperatures. The first year plants will usually produce flowers in the summer and can flourish in the autumn if they are limited after the summer flowering is completed.