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.

Lavandula dentata (French Lavender)

Lavender Plant Hardiness and Humidity

Most Lavender plants can survive in hardiness zones 5-9. However, some varieties are not hardy and require warmer climates (zones 8-11) 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 plant that is suitable for your area.

Lavender Height and Growth Habit

Lavender plants come in many sizes and growth habits. Compact dwarf varieties are available and do not exceed 12 inches (30 cm) in height. There are also larger, more sprawling lavender varieties that can easily reach 3 feet (90 cm) in height. When selecting a variety, consider the available space in your garden and the desired look you want to achieve.

Dwarf lavender varieties are ideal for containers, while the taller ones are great candidates for hedges.

Foliage Considerations

The foliage of lavender plants, 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. Lavender foliage ranges from various shades of green to gray-green or silver. Leaves may be narrow (as seen in English lavender) or toothed (as seen in French lavender).

Lavender Flower

Lavender flowers vary in size, shape, and color. When using flower spikes for drying, note that the color of the calyx (bud) matters, as 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, color selection is 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 available. Spanish lavender is a standout choice, with petals that resemble butterfly wings, adding unique beauty to any garden.

Some lavender plants are more intensely scented than others. Choose a variety that appeals to your senses and complements your garden’s color scheme.

Lavender Blooming Season

Lavender is a summer-blooming perennial with varying blooming seasons depending on the variety.

• French lavender (Lavandula dentata) blooms from late spring through summer, often extending into the fall. 
• Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas) can bloom almost year-round in ideal conditions, particularly in warmer climates. It typically begins flowering in late spring and can produce blooms intermittently throughout the summer and fall.
• English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) typically begins to bloom in early summer, generally around June. Its blooms usually last for about three to four weeks. Some cultivars may produce a second flush of blooms in the fall.
• Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia) follows closely behind English lavender plants, blooming from mid-summer to early fall. 

By selecting a variety of lavender plants with staggered blooming periods, gardeners can enjoy continuous color and fragrance from late spring through early fall, attracting pollinators and enhancing the garden’s beauty.

Determine Your Purpose

Consider why you want to grow lavender, as this can influence your choice:

• Culinary Uses: If you plan to use lavender in cooking or baking, opt for culinary varieties such as English lavender, known for its sweet flavor and aroma.

• Aromatherapy and Essential Oils: For essential oil production, English lavender and lavandin varieties are preferred due to their high oil content and fragrance quality.

• Ornamental Value: If aesthetics are your primary concern, consider flowering varieties like Spanish lavender, which offers unique blooms, or French lavender for its decorative foliage and flowers.

• Pollinator Gardens: If attracting bees and butterflies is your goal, any lavender variety will help, but Spanish lavender is particularly attractive to pollinators due to its extended bloom time.

Disease-resistance

When choosing lavender, check for disease resistance. Some 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.

Find the Perfect Lavender Plant with Our Plant Finder!

Lavender Growing Tips

To help your lavender plant thrive, follow these essential 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, amend it with sand or gravel to enhance drainage.

Choose a Sunny Location: Lavender requires full sun, ideally receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Select a spot with good sun exposure to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Space Plants Properly: Provide adequate space between your lavender plants to ensure good air circulation and prevent overcrowding. Depending on the variety, space them 18-36 inches (45-90 cm) apart.

Water Moderately: Lavender is drought-tolerant and thrives in 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 typically requires minimal 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 result in weak, leggy growth.

Prune Regularly: Prune your lavender 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 lavender flowers just as they begin to open. Cut the flower stems while 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.

Lavender and Santolina – The Perfect Xeriscape Duo

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Sunlight Does a Lavender Plant Need?

Lavender plants require full sun, ideally receiving 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Adequate sunlight is essential for promoting healthy growth, abundant blooms, and the aromatic qualities that lavender is known for.

Is Lavender Pressed to Extract Oil?

Yes, lavender is often distilled to extract essential oil. The process involves steaming the flowers and foliage, allowing the aromatic compounds to be collected in the form of essential oil. This oil is widely used in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and culinary applications.

What is a Strong Contrast to Lavender?

A strong contrast to lavender would be plants with warm colors, such as yellow or orange flowers. Marigolds, zinnias, or sunflowers can provide a striking visual contrast against lavender’s purple hues. Additionally, plants with dark green or burgundy foliage can also create a beautiful contrast.

Do Deer Eat Lavender?

Generally, deer tend to avoid lavender due to its strong scent and taste. Lavender is often considered a deer-resistant plant, making it a popular choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations. However, if food sources are scarce, deer may still nibble on it occasionally.