Centranthus lecoqii
Narrow-leaved Valerian · Red Valerian · Common Valerian · Herba de Sant Jordi
Description
Source: leafsnapCentranthus lecoqii, commonly known as Moroccan valerian, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Caprifoliaceae family. Native to North Africa, it is found in Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. Growing up to 60 cm in height, this plant has a bushy habit with numerous stems arising from a woody base. The leaves of Centranthus lecoqii are opposite, simple, and lanceolate with serrated margins. The flowers, which bloom from late spring through summer, are small and tubular with five pink or purple petals. These blossoms appear on long stalks that rise above the foliage. Centranthus lecoqii prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Once established, it is drought-tolerant, though it benefits from regular watering during extended dry periods. Historically, the plant has been used for its sedative properties, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and insomnia. Additionally, it attracts pollinators such as bees, making it an excellent choice for gardens or landscape designs. Overall, Centranthus lecoqii is an attractive perennial herb that adds color and interest to any garden while providing medicinal benefits to those who seek them.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 7 days
☀️ Light Partial sun
Centranthus lecoqii occurs naturally in habitats like forest understories or rocky sites, where it grows under natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can also tolerate full sun or full shade, reflecting its versatile, hardy character.
🌡️ Temperature 5–32.2°C
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 6-8
🌱 Fertilizer
Usually one fertilizer application in spring is enough for Centranthus lecoqii, although repeated feedings can maximize growth. Feed every one to one and a half months. Fertilization improves the leaves' appearance and function, helping maintain even color and a healthy texture. It also encourages root development and increases nutrient uptake for long-term plant health.
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Centranthus
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-8
- Mature Height
- 20 cm to 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 15 cm to 30 cm
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green, Forest Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Pink, White
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Autumn, Winter
- Harvest Time
- Summer
- Native Area
- Spain, France