Jupiter’s beard is a drought-tolerant perennial that thrives in tough conditions and brings in a lot of pollinators. With its clusters of beautiful, starry blooms and its ability to grow in rocky soil, it’s a great addition to any garden. Jupiter’s beard grows well in USDA zones 4–9, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of gardens.
Care for Jupiter’s Beard
Jupiter’s beard is surprisingly low-maintenance. Here’s how to help it thrive:
- Sunlight: Full sun is best, though it will tolerate light shade.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. It prefers poor to average soil and doesn’t need much organic matter.
- Watering: Drought-tolerant once established. Water moderately until the plant is established, then only during prolonged dry periods.
- Fertilizer: Don’t need it. Jupiter’s beard actually performs better in lean soil.
Types of Jupiter’s Beard
The most common variety is Centranthus ruber, but there are a few garden-worthy cultivars:
- Centranthus ruber ‘Coccineus’ – Classic bright red to deep rose-pink flowers.
- Centranthus ruber ‘Albus’ – A white-flowering variety that contrasts beautifully with darker blooms.
- Centranthus ruber ‘Pretty Betsy’ – A softer pink variety.
Bloom
Jupiter’s beard blooms from late spring through summer, often continuing into early fall with deadheading. Its clusters of tiny star-shaped flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a pollinator favorite. It’s one of those plants that looks good for months without much fuss. In places where it gets really hot in the summer the plant may stop blooming, or collapse after flowering.
Pruning
To keep the plant looking tidy and encourage repeat blooms, get yourself a nice pair of hand pruners and:
- Deadhead spent flowers regularly during the growing season.
- If it spreads too aggressively (it can self-seed), thin out new seedlings or cut flower heads before they go to seed.
- In climates where it gets too hot in the summer for more blooms, cut down by a half after first bloom. This will rejuvenate the plant and will often result in another bloom in late summer.
Propagating Jupiter’s Beard
Jupiter’s beard is easy to propagate, making it a great plant to share with friends or spread throughout your garden.
- By Seed: Letting the flowers go to seed is the easiest method. It self-seeds freely in well-drained soil, and seedlings often pop up nearby in spring. You can also collect seeds after flowering and sow them in fall or early spring.
- By Division: In early spring or fall, dig up mature clumps and gently separate the roots. Replant the divisions immediately in a sunny spot.
- By Cuttings: Take softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. Dip in rooting hormone and place in a well-draining mix. Keep moist until roots form.
Whether you go the easy self-seeding route or take cuttings for more control, Jupiter’s beard is generous and quick to multiply.
Pests and Diseases
Jupiter’s beard is relatively pest- and disease-free, but watch for:
- Aphids – Can cluster on stems and buds.
- Root rot – A risk if soil is poorly drained.
- Powdery mildew – Occasional in humid climates, especially if airflow is limited.
Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help keep problems at bay.
Overwintering
Jupiter’s beard is hardy in many climates and doesn’t need much winter care:
- In mild climates, it may remain semi-evergreen.
- In colder zones, cut it down to about six inches in early September to stimulate vegetative growth, and do not cut again for winter.
- Mulch lightly in late fall if winters are harsh, but avoid heavy, soggy mulch.
Jupiter’s beard makes a great addition to any garden and looks great with May Night salvia and other perennials.
as an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases