Red valerian Centranthus ruber 'Albus'

Names

• Family

  Caprifoliaceae

• Synonyms

  White Valerian, Red Valerian 'Albus', White Jupiter's Beard

• Common names

  Kentranthus ruber 'Albus'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Red valerian is generally considered non-toxic to humans, and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities are possible. If ingested in large quantities, it could potentially cause stomach upset or other digestive issues, but such reactions are rare. It is always advisable to exercise caution and not consume any part of a plant unless it is known to be edible and safe.

• To pets

  Red valerian does not appear on the list of commonly recognized toxic plants for pets such as dogs and cats. There is no well-documented evidence of toxicity. However, individual animals may have sensitivities, and ingestion could potentially result in mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Even non-toxic plants can cause such symptoms if ingested in large amounts or if the pet is not accustomed to eating them. Always monitor your pets around plants and seek veterinary advice if you observe any adverse reactions after ingestion.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  2-3 feet (60-90 cm)

• Spread

  2 feet (60 cm)

• Plant type

  Herb

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Mediterranean

General Benefits

• Attracts Pollinators: Centranthus ruber 'Albus', commonly known as White Valerian, is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are important for the pollination of many plants.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, White Valerian has good drought tolerance, making it suitable for dry or xeriscape gardens.
• Low Maintenance: This plant is considered low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, and it is relatively free from major pest and disease problems.
• Easy to Grow: White Valerian is known for being easy to grow and can thrive in a wide range of soil types, including poor soils.
• Landscape Use: With its showy white flowers, it's often used in borders, cottage gardens, and coastal gardens to add visual interest.
• Erosion Control: The plant's root system helps stabilize slopes and banks, contributing to erosion control.
• Rapid Growth: White Valerian grows fairly quickly, filling in areas of the garden where a mass of color is desired.
• Long Blooming: It provides a long blooming season, from late spring to fall, making it a valuable addition to any garden for extended color.
• Wildlife Shelter: The plant can provide shelter for wildlife in the garden, creating a small habitat for various small creatures.
• Adaptability: White Valerian can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade, offering versatility in garden placement.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Centranthus ruber 'Albus', commonly known as white valerian, can be used as a natural plant dye for fabrics, yielding shades of soft green or yellow depending on the mordant used.
• In the language of flowers, white valerian represents an invitation to aliens, often incorporated in floral arrangements meant to convey otherworldly charm or curiosity.
• Due to its sturdy stems, white valerian can be used in casual floral crowns or as a structural element in more complex botanical headpieces for festivals and weddings.
• White valerian can serve as a companion plant in the vegetable garden, attracting beneficial insects like hoverflies and butterflies which help pollinate crops.
• The dried seed heads of white valerian can be used in potpourris or as natural decorative elements in dry flower arrangements to add an ethereal touch.
• Gardeners may use white valerian clippings as a green layer in compost heaps, as they are rich in nitrogen and enhance the decomposing process of the compost.
• The plant's ability to thrive on rocky slopes makes it a good candidate for rehabilitating and stabilizing disused quarries or other barren areas prone to erosion.
• White valerian is suitable for creating informal hedges or border plants in coastal areas, as it is salt tolerant and can withstand windy conditions.
• As an ornamental plant, white valerian's billowy growth can be used to soften architectural lines or hard landscaping in garden designs.
• Photographers and artists may use it as a picturesque subject in nature photography and botanical illustrations owing to its delicate white flowers.

Feng Shui

Valerian is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Valerian is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Love and Affection: Centranthus ruber, commonly known as Red Valerian, often symbolizes love and affection due to its vibrant red flowers, though the 'Albus' variety has white flowers which can represent purity in love.
• Perseverance: Given its ability to thrive in difficult conditions, Red Valerian can represent an enduring nature and the ability to persevere through challenges.
• Attracting New Love: This plant is sometimes used in gardens to symbolize the attraction of new love, as it draws in butterflies and hummingbirds.
• Relaxation: Historically, the roots of Red Valerian were used in herbal medicine for their sedative effects, and so the plant can symbolize calmness and relaxation.