Valerianaceae; native to the Mediterranean.

Germination: Best sown indoors at alternating temperatures of 55 and 72° with no cover. Seeds will germinate in 15-20 days. Seeds may be sown outdoors in spring or fall, when the soil temperature is cool. Barely cover the seeds as light aids in germination.

Growth: Transplant seedlings when there are at least two sets of true leaves. Space seedlings 2-3 feet apart in full sun in an alkaline, well-drained soil. Very tolerant of poor, low-fertility soils. Deadhead regularly to keep plants tidy. Plants will decline after a few years, so expect to replace them every 3 to 4 years. Will self-sow around the garden.

Appearance and Use: A natural fit in any border, it also takes well to rock gardens, in pockets between stones in a wall, and on stony banks. Centranthus is of clump-forming habit to 24 inches tall and spreading to 3 feet. The 1/2 inch flowers are carmine red to deep crimson and are very fragrant. Individual flowers are funnel-shaped and borne in dense cymes. During their long flowering season from late spring to late summer, the fragrant flowers are very attractive to both humans and bees. The 3 inch long, lanceolate to ovate, green leaves are fleshy-smooth in texture and have a slightly serrated margin.