Centranthus ruber Coccineus Peltoboykinia spade-shaped leaves

spade-shaped leaves

roadside ditches

protruding sex organ (spadix) which provides a dramatic contrast to the purple of the pitcher (spathe)

sandpapery green leaves make a superb 6" tall

Centranthus ruber Coccineus Peltoboykinia spade-shaped leavesWe have long valued the Mediterranean Centranthus ruber 'Coccineus' as a great garden perennial. Jupiter's beard emerges in spring with glaucous green foliage adorning the base of the 3' tall flowering spikes that end with terminal clusters of tiny, reddish pink, fragrant flowers. Peak flowering for us is May (NC), but Centranthus ruber continues producing flower spikes through the remainder of the summer and is a magnet for butterflies. As with all