Description
Centranthus ruber or red valerian forms loose clumps of somewhat fleshy bluish leaves and stems to two to three feet that are topped with clusters of long-lasting, red to deep pink, star-shaped flowers from late spring through fall. It is extremely drought tolerant and tough. I’ve seen it growing out of volcanic rubble at the top of Mount Vesuvius and from out of the cracks in walls in southern Europe. Great for small pollinators like butterflies and native bees.