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

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

It is not spurred as in the case of the Red Valerian (p. 302), but the base of the tube is pouched on one side.

From Project Gutenberg

Here, as in Sicily, the old lava is overgrown with prickly pear and red valerian.

From Project Gutenberg

The old wall is, however, growing gay with another plant--the Red Valerian.

From Project Gutenberg

It grows on walls and rocks, as the Red Valerian does, but it is a very different plant in appearance.

From Project Gutenberg