Centranthus macrosiphon
Family: Valerianaceae
What it is like
Centranthus macrosiphon is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower in July, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Rocky and waste places.
Europe - Spain.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Leaves - raw. Added to salads, the leaves have a similar taste to corn salad (Valerianella locusta) but with a slight bitterness that gives them a more distinct and agreeable flavour. Flowers - raw.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
How it is grown
Grows well in ordinary garden soil and on dry walls. A very ornamental plant, it attracts moths and butterflies.
Propagating it: Seed - sow March in situ. An autumn sowing in situ could also work.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds; East Wall. In. South Wall. In. West Wall. In.
Habit: Annual
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist