Centranthus ruber ‘Coccineus’

This must be one of the most admired “weeds” in Great Britain, where it grows in every crevice it can find. It is not as prolific in the northeast, but will thrive in lean, well-drained sunny sites. Red Valerian has blue-green leaves, striking, fragrant pink flowers and a lax habit that makes it suited to wall and raised beds. This old-fashioned perennial is a good butterfly plant. Self-seeding. Carmine-pink flowers appear between May and June.