Red Valerian (Centranthus ruber) is a drought-tolerant, perennial wildflower that thrives in sunny, well-drained sites and produces clusters of vibrant red to pink flowers, ideal for coastal, meadow, and rock garden settings.
Benefits
Attractive red to pink flowers that draw pollinators
Ideal for sunny, dry locations with well-drained soils
Excellent for wildflower meadows, coastal planting, and rockeries
Low-maintenance, drought-tolerant once established
Supports bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects
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Red Valerian (Centranthus ruber) is a hardy, perennial wildflower known for its vibrant clusters of red to pink flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. This striking plant thrives in well-drained soils, particularly in sunny locations, making it an excellent choice for wildflower meadows, coastal habitats, rock gardens, and even dry banks or walls. Its long-lasting flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, helping to support biodiversity in a variety of landscapes.
Red Valerian is adaptable to a range of conditions, including poor soils, making it ideal for areas where other plants may struggle. It has a strong architectural presence, with tall stems and clusters of showy flowers that create a dramatic visual impact, especially in coastal or naturalistic plantings.
Features & Benefits
Vibrant red to pink flowers that attract pollinators
Thrives in dry, well-drained, and sunny conditions
Ideal for wildflower meadows, coastal planting, and rock gardens
Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established
Supports a range of pollinators including bees and butterflies
Latin Name:
Centranthus ruber
Flowering Time:
May – September
Flowering Height:
40 – 80 cm
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
3.75kg per acre (9.25kg per hectare)
Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)
How to Sow & Preparation
Select a sunny site with well-drained, low-nutrient soil.
Clear the area of weeds and create a fine, level seedbed.
Broadcast the seed evenly across the surface.
Firm the seed into the soil lightly, ensuring it does not get buried too deeply.
Water the area lightly if conditions are dry, particularly during germination.
This plant establishes well in wildflower meadows, coastal zones, or mixed planting schemes.
About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.
Attribute Detail
Latin Name Centranthus ruber
Flowering Time May – September
Flowering Height 40 – 80 cm
Life Cycle Perennial
Sowing Rate 3.75kg per acre (9.25kg per hectare)
Sowing Period Spring or Autumn
Preferred Conditions Sunny, dry, well-drained soils
Pollinator Friendly Yes
Minimum Order Quantity 100g
Ideal For Coastal plantings, dry banks, meadows, and rock gardens
