Flower Properties

Property	Value
English Name	Red Valerian
MainColor	Red
PlantType	Herb
Growth Type	Naturalized
Season	June
ImageUrl	Centranthus-001
Photographer	DP
Location
Human Toxicity	Non_Toxic

Flower Details

Description

A perennial with clusters of small, fragrant, pink to red (sometimes white) flowers held on branching stems. It’s a common feature on walls, roadsides, and rocky ground, often forming colourful drifts.

Distribution

Native to the Mediterranean but naturalised widely across western and southern Europe, including much of the UK. Favors dry, sunny, well-drained soils.

Medicinal/Other Uses

Historically, the roots were used as a mild sedative and to aid digestion, though not commonly in modern herbalism. Sometimes confused with Valeriana officinalis, the true medicinal valerian.

Edibility

Young leaves can be eaten raw in salads or lightly cooked, but are bitter and not widely consumed.

Human Toxicity

Generally safe, though large amounts may cause stomach upset due to bitterness.

Pet Toxicity

Not Toxic

Active Compounds

Volatile oils, bitter principles, and flavonoids.