red valerian

noun

1. a bushy valerian, Centranthus ruber, of Europe and southwestern Asia, having many fragrant red, crimson, or white flowers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of red valerian¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

A mellow brick wall enclosed the orchard, a wall beautified by small green ferns, by pink and red valerian, and yellow toadflax.

From Project Gutenberg

Masses of red valerian, and some of the graceful bright rose-bay willow-herb, give colour to the banks and overhang the walls.

From Project Gutenberg

Not a wall but flaunted red valerian and snapdragon.

From Project Gutenberg

Even the red valerian, that sprouts so boldly in bushes of coral from the top of the wall, is regarded by some people as a weed and an impudent intruder.

From Project Gutenberg