Lavender: How to choose the right one?

Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia)

• Lavandin is a hybrid cross between Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia. Cultivars are slightly less hardy than L. angustifolia and are taller with mounds of gray foliage and long, loose spikes.
• Lavandin tolerates hot (dry) weather better than English Lavender. Cultivars are commercially grown for their high yield of oil, which, however, is inferior in quality to L. angustifolia’s oil.
• This Lavender type is ideal for hedges and rock gardens. It can also be used as an accent plant. It is popular in potpourris and as a culinary herb.
• Flowering typically occurs from mid to late summer (generally 1 month later than English Lavender).

Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas)

• Spanish Lavender is recognized by the conspicuous sterile bracts resembling extravagant ears on top of the short, dense bloom. Grown for its silvery aromatic leaves, it is used extensively for essential oils or potpourris. The very distinctive flowers, however, steal the show with their distinctive “ears” sprouting from each flower head.
• This Lavender loves hot weather but is more tender (Hardiness 8-9) than other varieties. A beautiful selection for mass plantings or containers.
• Flowering typically occurs from mid-spring to late summer.

French Lavender (Lavandula dentata)

• French Lavender is an evergreen shrub native to Eastern and Southern Spain. It derives its name from the toothed (dentate) leaves, which have a richly aromatic lavender to rosemary scent. Not as fragrant as other plants, but the spikes are very colorful, and the foliage is particularly attractive.
• This Lavender is hardy to zones 8-9 and generally grows up to 3 ft. (90 cm).
• Nonstop flowering typically from early summer to fall and nearly all year if given enough light and warmth.

Elements to consider when selecting a Lavender variety

Hardiness and Humidity

• Most Lavender plants can survive in hardiness zones 5-9. However, some varieties are not hardy and require warmer climates (zones 8-9) to thrive. With adequate protection, they can even be grown with success in zones 3-4. They love hot weather, but they do not like humidity and might be affected by fungal disease and rot.
• Check our Plant Finder to choose a lavender variety that is suitable for your area.

Height

• Choose the right size and growth habit.
• Lavender varieties come in many sizes and growth habits. Compact dwarf varieties are available, and they do not exceed 12 inches in height (30 cm). There are also larger, more sprawling lavender varieties that can easily reach 3 ft. (90 cm) in height. Consider the available space in your garden and the desired look you want to achieve when selecting a variety.
• Dwarf lavender varieties are ideal for containers, while the taller ones are great candidates for hedges.

Foliage

• The foliage, which is evergreen in warm areas, will be on display for a longer period than the blossoms. Therefore, it shouldn’t be overlooked in your selection decision.
• Very attractive, it ranges from various shades of green to gray-green or silver. Leaves may be narrow (English Lavender) or toothed (French Lavender).

Flower

• Lavender flowers vary in size, shape, and color. It is important to note that when using flower spikes for drying, the color of the calyx (bud) is what matters. The corolla (petals) will usually turn brown and fall off. The deeper the hue of the calyx, the more striking the dried flower will be.
• In the garden, the color selection will be a matter of taste. Many people do not realize that Lavender comes in colors other than purple. There are many blue, pink, or white lavender varieties. Surprise yourself or the onlookers with them!
• Spanish Lavender is a great variety. Its petals look like butterfly wings, sprouting from each flower head and stealing the show.
• Some varieties are more intensely scented than others. Choose a variety that appeals to your senses and complements your garden’s color scheme.

Blooming Season

• Lavender is a summer-blooming perennial or shrub with blooming seasons varying between varieties and cultivars.
• Generally speaking, English Lavender blooms about 1 month earlier than Lavandin.
• Some experience a second flush of blooms in the fall.
• Others, like Spanish Lavender, may be in bloom all year round under favorable conditions.

Disease-resistance

• Check for disease resistance: Some lavender varieties are more resistant to pests and diseases, such as root rot or fungal infections. Selecting a disease-resistant variety can help ensure a healthier, more robust plant.

By considering these factors and doing some research, you can choose the right variety for your garden, ensuring a beautiful and fragrant addition to your outdoor space.

Growing Tips

To help your lavender thrive, follow these gardening tips:

• Plant in well-draining soil: Lavender prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. If your soil is heavy or clay-based, consider amending it with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
• Choose a sunny location: Lavender requires full sun, ideally receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Plant in a spot with good sun exposure to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
• Space plants properly: Provide adequate space between plants to ensure good air circulation and prevent overcrowding. Depending on the variety, space plants 18-36 inches (45-90 cm) apart.
• Water moderately: Lavender is drought-tolerant and prefers slightly dry conditions. Water your plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues.
• Fertilize sparingly: Lavender generally does not require much fertilization. If necessary, use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) or well-composted organic matter in the spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to weak, leggy growth.
• Prune regularly: Prune your plants annually in the spring or early summer, removing dead, damaged, or weak growth. This helps maintain the plant’s shape and encourages healthy, bushy growth. Avoid cutting into the woody part of the plant, as new growth may not emerge from these areas.
• Harvest at the right time: For the most fragrant blooms, harvest the flowers just as they begin to open. Cut the flower stems, leaving some green foliage on the plant to encourage new growth.
• Control pests and diseases: Monitor your plants for signs of pests or diseases, such as aphids, whiteflies, or fungal infections. Treat any issues promptly with appropriate organic or chemical controls, and maintain proper plant care to minimize the risk of problems.
• Consider companion plants: Lavender is a great choice to plant alongside Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary, sage, and thyme. Companion plants can also help deter pests and improve overall plant health.

Follow these gardening tips. Then you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of these lovely plants in your garden for years to come.