How to grow Centranthus (ken-tran-thus)
From the Greek kentron, a spur, anthos, a flower, alluding to the shape of the flower (Valerianaceae). A small genus of annuals and perennials, natives of Europe and the Mediterranean area. The hardy herbaceous perennial, C. ruber, the red valerian is almost a weed on cliffs, railway embankments, and old walls. The name is sometimes spelt Kentranthus.
Species cultivated C. macrosiphon, 2 feet, annual, flowers tubular, rose-pink, summer. C. ruber, red valerian, 2 feet, reddish-pink flowers, June and July ; vars. alba, white ; atrococcineus, deep red. All are handsome plants.
