Centranthus ruber (L.) DC.
Spur valerian (Centranthus ruber) is a long-lived, perennial herb that is native to South-West Europe and the Mediterranean region. It was introduced to New Zealand as a garden ornamental and was first recorded in the wild (naturalised) in 1878. The plant grows up to about 80 centimetres tall from a woody rootstock and has bluish-green leaves arranged in opposite pairs. It flowers from spring to autumn, producing dense clusters of small crimson, pink, white or occasionally red flowers, which develop into small fruits containing a single seed. It tolerates drought, wind, poor soils and rocky sites. It reproduces by seed. Seeds are dispersed by wind and human activities.
This description has been automatically generated using information from trusted sources. If you notice any errors or omissions, please let us know.