Red Valerian

This is Red Valerian (Centranthus ruber), not to be confused with Valerian, but alternatively known as Valerian. Confusing, isn't it? Another name for it is Jupiter's Beard and it grows through the gravel all over my front yard and on the driveway as a weed, but I am not disposed to cut it back. Here it is growing amongst the Boston Ivy on the back of my gateway.

According to Wikipedia, "Both leaves and roots can be eaten, the leaves either fresh in salads or lightly boiled, the roots boiled in soups. Opinions differ as to whether either make very good eating, however. Although it is sometimes reported to have medicinal properties, there is no basis for this view, which is almost certainly due to confusion with true Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)". The full Wikipedia entry is here.

If things go according to plan, I will be taking quite a few pictures tomorrow so to in order not to give myself too much post-processing work this is the only picture I have taken today.

Wasn't Dr Who good?

Lens: Sigma 70-300mm

Day #415
Blip #413
Consecutive Blip #410

One Year Ago: Calne (textures&colours series)