red valerian (Centranthus ruber 'Pretty Betsy') plant — close-up photo
Moderate to grow

red valerian

Centranthus ruber 'Pretty Betsy'

Overview

The red valerian, also known as ‘Pretty Betsy’, boasts beautiful bright-pink star-shaped flowers with a sweet fragrance that adorn the shrub from late spring to early autumn. It is covered in lush green foliage and produces seeds that attract many species of birds. This low maintenance perennial is able to thrive in a variety of soil conditions and is quite tolerant to drought. The red valerian is an amazing choice for any garden as it can provide vibrant colour, sweet aroma and a great habitat for wildlife.

Care Guide

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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.

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Light

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.

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Temperature

Hardiness zone 5–8.

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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.

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Propagation

Cutting, Division, Layering Propagation, Seed Propagation

Uses & Symbolism

Attracts: Butterflies.

Diseases & Pests

Common pests: Drought resistant.

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