Centranthus ruber 'Coccineus'

We have long valued the Mediterranean Centranthus ruber 'Coccineus' as a great garden perennial. Jupiter's beard emerges in spring with glaucous green foliage adorning the base of the 3' tall flowering spikes that end with terminal clusters of tiny, reddish-pink, fragrant flowers. Peak flowering for us is May (NC), but Centranthus ruber continues producing flower spikes through the remainder of the summer and is a magnet for butterflies. As with all Mediterranean plants, good drainage is key to success, along with soils that tend toward a neutral pH. Jupiter's beard seems to enjoy being divided every few years to stay vigorous. Centranthus ruber also makes a great cut flower, so plant plenty to have enough for arrangements.