All products were chosen independently by our editorial team. This review contains affiliate links and we may receive a commission for purchases made. Please read our affiliates FAQ page to find out more.
Home » How to » Grow Plants » How to Grow Red Valerian
Red Valerian (Centranthus ruber), a vibrant and resilient perennial, is a favorite among gardeners for its ease of care and stunning blossoms. Often gracing rock gardens and borders, this Mediterranean native thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of growing and caring for Red Valerian, ensuring your garden is adorned with its colorful presence.
Key Takeaways:
- Optimal Conditions: Best grown in spring or fall, in sunny, well-drained locations.
- Planting and Spacing: Plant seeds or seedlings 12-16 inches apart in soil without additional fertilizers.
- Watering and Feeding: Requires minimal watering, especially when established, and no fertilization.
- Propagating Red Valerian: Propagate through seeds or crown division, ideally in the fall.
- Varieties: Choose from varieties like Centranthus ruber var. albus (white flowers) or C. ruber var. coccineus (deep red flowers).
How to Grow Red Valerian
Optimal Planting Times and Conditions
Plant your Red Valerian either in spring after the last frost or during the fall. These periods offer the most favorable conditions for seedlings to establish themselves. Red Valerian flourishes in sunny locations and can adapt to a range of soil types, even poor soils.
Table: Planting Time and Conditions
Time of Year | Soil Type | Sunlight Exposure |
Spring/Fall | Calcareous, sandy | Full sun |
Soil Preparation and Seed Broadcasting
Prepare your garden bed by loosening the soil and removing any large debris. No additional soil mix is necessary, as Red Valerian is adaptable to less fertile soils. When planting seeds, broadcast them evenly and lightly cover with soil.
Table: Soil Preparation and Seed Broadcasting
Action | Description |
Soil Preparation | Break up soil, no additional mix needed |
Seed Broadcasting | Evenly spread and lightly cover with soil |
Spacing and Depth for Planting
Space your Red Valerian plants or seeds about 12 to 16 inches apart. This spacing allows each plant ample room to grow and flourish. Seeds should be sown at a shallow depth, just enough to cover them with soil.
Table: Planting Spacing and Depth
Planting Aspect | Measurement |
Spacing | 12-16 inches apart |
Depth | Shallow (cover seeds) |
Importance of Sunlight Exposure
Red Valerian thrives in locations receiving at least 6 hours of full sunlight daily. While it can tolerate partial shade, full sun exposure ensures lush foliage and abundant blooms.
Table: Sunlight Exposure Requirements
Sunlight Exposure | Effect on Plant |
Full Sun | Lush foliage, abundant blooms |
Partial Shade | Tolerable, less optimal |
Where to Grow Red Valerian
Suitable Climates and Hardiness Zones
Red Valerian is hardy in USDA Zones 5 to 8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It can tolerate both cooler and moderately warm temperatures.
Table: Climate Suitability
USDA Zone | Temperature Range |
5 – 8 | Cool to moderate |
Best Garden Locations
This plant is highly adaptable and can grow in a variety of garden settings. It performs exceptionally well in rock gardens, flower beds, and borders. Red Valerian’s ability to grow in less fertile soils makes it a perfect fit for challenging garden spots.
Table: Garden Location Suitability
Location Type | Suitability |
Rock Gardens | Highly suitable |
Flower Beds | Ideal |
Borders | Excellent |
Soil Type Preferences
Red Valerian is not picky when it comes to soil. It thrives in calcareous, permeable soils with gravel or sand content but can also adapt to normal garden soil as long as it’s well-drained.
Table: Soil Type Preferences
Soil Type | Suitability |
Calcareous, Sandy | Highly suitable |
Loamy | Suitable |
Normal Garden Soil | Suitable (if well-drained) |
Tolerances
One of the plant’s strengths is its tolerance to various conditions. It can withstand drought once established and is not demanding regarding soil fertility.
Table: Red Valerian Tolerances
Tolerance Type | Level |
Drought | High |
Poor Soil | High |
How to Plant Red Valerian
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
- Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil and remove weeds or debris.
- Planting: Plant seeds or seedlings at the recommended depth and spacing.
- Watering: Initially, water the plants more frequently to help them establish.
Transplanting Tips for Optimal Growth
When transplanting Red Valerian, ensure the planting hole is slightly larger than the root ball. Add a layer of gravel or chippings for drainage if the soil is moist.
Seedling Care and Thinning Process
Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to keep only the most vigorous ones, maintaining the spacing guideline. This ensures adequate growth and development for each plant.
Caring for Red Valerian
Watering Requirements and Avoiding Waterlogging
Red Valerian has moderate watering needs, especially when young. It’s drought-resistant once established, but overwatering can lead to issues like crown rot. Ensure the soil is dry to moderately moist but not waterlogged.
Table: Watering Guidelines
Plant Stage | Watering Need |
Young Plants | Regular, even moisture |
Established | Minimal, drought-tolerant |
Fertilization: When and How Much
This plant is low-maintenance when it comes to feeding. It thrives without the need for additional fertilization. Natural soil nutrients are generally sufficient for its growth.
Table: Fertilization Requirements
Fertilization | Requirement |
Type | None required |
Frequency | Not applicable |
Pruning and Deadheading
Deadheading spent blooms encourages more flowering and prevents self-seeding. Cutting back the plant after the first flowering can promote a second bloom, especially in the varieties that are long-blooming.
Table: Pruning Guidelines
Action | Purpose |
Deadheading | Encourage more blooms, prevent self-seeding |
Cutting Back | Promote second bloom |
Mulching and Maintenance Tips
A layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Red Valerian benefits from a mulch layer of gravel or chippings, which also promotes root growth.
Table: Mulching and Maintenance
Aspect | Tips |
Mulching | Use gravel or chippings |
Maintenance | Minimal; watch for overwatering |
Register for our latest in-depth reviews and product round-ups from the experts.
Enter your email address below to receive our monthly review emails.
By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
How to Propagate Red Valerian
Propagation through Seeds or Crown Division
Red Valerian can be propagated by sowing seeds or dividing the crown. Seeds should be sown between late spring and early summer. Crown division is best done in the fall for optimal growth.
Table: Propagation Methods
Method | Best Time |
Seed Sowing | Late Spring/Early Summer |
Crown Division | Fall |
Best Practices for Sowing Seeds and Transplanting
Choose a sunny location for sowing seeds. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and ensure the soil remains well-drained. For crown division, ensure each division has a part of the root system.
Timing for Propagation Activities
Propagate through seeds in late spring to early summer. For crown division, fall is the optimal time, as it allows the plant to establish before the winter.
Table: Timing for Propagation
Activity | Ideal Timing |
Seed Sowing | Late Spring/Early Summer |
Crown Division | Fall |
Care Tips for Young Plants and Division of Mature Plants
Young plants should be watered regularly to establish a strong root system. For divided plants, provide ample space for growth and avoid overwatering.
Table: Care Tips for Propagation
Plant Stage | Care Tips |
Young Plants | Regular watering, sun exposure |
Divided Plants | Adequate space, avoid overwatering |
Growing Red Valerian: Problem Solving
Common Issues: Overwatering Signs and Solutions
Overwatering is a primary concern with Red Valerian. Signs include wilting, yellowing leaves, and root rot. The solution is to reduce watering frequency and ensure good drainage in the soil.
Table: Overwatering Signs and Solutions
Sign | Solution |
Wilting | Reduce watering |
Yellow Leaves | Check drainage, reduce watering |
Root Rot | Improve soil drainage |
Pest and Disease Management
Red Valerian is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, proper air circulation and avoiding wet foliage can further minimize risks.
Table: Pest and Disease Prevention
Issue | Prevention Strategy |
Pests | Ensure good air circulation |
Diseases | Avoid wet foliage |
Varieties of Red Valerian to Grow
Different Cultivars and Their Characteristics
Several cultivars of Red Valerian are available, each with unique flower colors and blooming characteristics. For example, Centranthus ruber var. albus has white flowers, while C. ruber var. coccineus features deep red flowers.
Table: Red Valerian Varieties
Variety | Flower Color | Characteristics |
C. ruber var. albus | White | – |
C. ruber var. coccineus | Deep Red | Long-blooming |
C. roseus | Deep Rose | – |
FAQs
Yes, it’s known for its low-maintenance and drought tolerance.
Absolutely, it thrives in a range of soil types, even poor ones.
Space them 12-16 inches apart for optimal growth.

A passionate plant enthusiast on a mission to turn every space into a blooming haven. With a love for all things botanical, I'm your gardening guide, sharing quick tips, the joy of nurturing plants, and the belief that every day is a great day to garden. Join me in cultivating a thriving garden paradise—we'll sow, grow, and flourish together in this green revolution!