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Jupiter's Beard
Seed Packet

Jupiter's Beard

Centranthus ruber
Native to the Mediterranean, red valerian thrives in well-drained, even poor alkaline soils and easily reseeds to fill difficult barren spots with gray-green foliage and full flower heads. Clustered starry florets in vibrant rosy red brighten informal cottage gardens, lovely with mealy cup sage and lavenders. Mid to late summer flowering, when they are a boon to migrating butterflies.
SKU #S1576
$3.25
Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
240
Lifecycle
Perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
4,
5,
6,
7
Mature Size
2.5-3' h x 1.5' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Regular, well-drained
Season
Summer to fall
Color
Clusters of rosy-red flowers
Features
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Just cover
Sprout Time:
14-21 days
Starting Indoors:
Sow indoors in late winter. Keep at 65-70°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in spring to early summer for flowers the following year.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
After last frost.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Jupiter's Beard will naturalize in well-drained, less fertile soils in sunny meadow gardens or add a wildflower ambiance to cottage gardens with its relaxed habit and free-flowering ways. Massed on sloping ground, it can also help prevent erosion. Pinch established plants to 4" tall to encourage a well-branched habit and shear most to the ground after bloom to avoid excessive self-sowing and promote a second, later bloom.
Final Spacing:
1.5'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Provide about 1" per week to get plants well-established, then water during dry spells.
Soil pH:
Neutral to slightly alkaline
Fertilizer:
Mix in a few inches of compost prior to planting, and topdress with an inch or two each fall thereafter.
Diseases & Pests:
Aphids and mealybugs can be troublesome; if detected, treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Avoid crown rot by planting only in well-drained locations. Spreads rapidly by self sown seeds.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when 1-2 to 3/4 florets open.