Centranthus ruber Albus or Red Valerian (yes its not red but this is a white version of the red plant) is an evergreen perennial bushy plant with blue green, soft, fleshy foliage and non-stop clusters made up of many tiny tubular creamy white flowers through spring and summer and into autumn.
It is hardy to cold but is not frost hardy. It requires full sun if it is to flower in summer.
The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by bees and are noted for attracting wildlife like butterflies bees and other flying insects and birds.
Good for rock gardens and the middle to rear of borders, it goes well with cottage style and other themes.
Both the leaves and roots can be eaten, the leaves either fresh in salads or lightly boiled, the roots boiled in soups. Opinions differ as to whether either make very good eating, however.