Any of a group of perennial plants native to the northern hemisphere, with clustered heads of fragrant tubular flowers in red, white, or pink. The root of the common valerian or garden heliotrope V. officinalis is used in medicine to relieve wind and to soothe or calm patients. (Genera Valeriana and Centranthus, family Valerianaceae.)
Red and white are traditional colours in South East Asia. Red represents universal fellowship and equality. White stands for purity and virtue. Effective date: 3 December 1959.