Red valerian

Red valerian

Centranthus ruber

Common Name:

Red valerian

Scientific Name:

Centranthus ruber


Alternative common names:

Description:

Red valerian is a hairless perennial herbaceous plant becoming shrubby and woody at the base in older stems.

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

Mediterranean.

What is its invasive status in South Africa?

NEMBA Category 1b in Western Cape Not listed elsewhere

Where in South Africa is it a problem?

Cape Peninsula.

How does it spread?

Seed dispersal.

Why is it a problem?

Invades roadsides and urban spaces.

What does it look like?

Leaves:Leaves are 5-8mm in length and grow in opposite pairs.
Flowers:Small individual flowers, highly variable: usually deep pink to magenta or crimson-red, but sometimes lavender or white.
Fruit/seeds:

Does the plant have any uses?

Garden ornamental.

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