red valerian
Centranthus ruber 'Pretty Betsy'
Also Known As - Jupiter's beardCycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 8
Flowers:
Pale to crimson red Flowers
Sun:
full sun,part shade
Fruits:
red,brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
watering
Red valerian prefers an average amount of water, but it can reach a drought tolerance of short periods. It does best when given weekly waterings in the summertime, when given about an inch of water per week either as a slow soak or by thorough hand-watering. In the cooler months, only apply water when the soil feels dry.
sunlight
Red valerian requires full sun for optimal growth and blooms, typically 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal. Depending on the season and geographic location, the hours of sunlight may vary, but it should always receive a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day in order to remain healthy and bloom. Red valerian enjoys long periods of direct sunlight during hot summer days, but too much direct sunlight can scorch and burn its leaves, so during especially hot days providing some shade or protection from strong rays is recommended.
pruning
Red Valerian should be pruned once a year in spring, and you can cut the stems back to 10-15 cm. This plant has a dense, bushy growth habit, so you may need to make several cuts on each stem. Pruning will also help to promote new healthy growth and will help to keep the plant from getting too leggy.