Lavandula angustifolia ‘Munstead’ (Lavender)

Munstead Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Munstead’) is one of the most popular lavender varieties, cherished for its beautiful blooms, delightful fragrance, and versatility in various settings.

Munstead Lavender (English Lavender): An In-depth Look

Munstead Lavender is a compact, evergreen perennial known for its aromatic qualities and striking appearance. It produces upright spikes of vibrant purple flowers that bloom above a mound of narrow, gray-green foliage. The scent of Munstead Lavender is sweet and soothing, making it a favorite in gardens and homes.

Native: Munstead Lavender is a cultivar of English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), which is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. While Munstead itself was developed in the early 20th century by renowned horticulturist Gertrude Jekyll in England, it retains the characteristics and charm of its native species.

Lavender belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which includes many aromatic herbs like basil, rosemary, oregano, mint, and sage.

Plant Type and Habit: Munstead Lavender is a perennial herb or evergreen shrub that produces flowers each growing season. It has a bushy, upright growth habit, typically forming a rounded mound. Its compact size makes it suitable for both formal and informal gardens and container planting.

Size: Munstead Lavender typically reaches a height of 20 to 24 inches (50 to 60 cm) and spreads about 24 to 30 inches (60 to 75 cm) wide. This size fits well into various garden designs, from borders to rock gardens.

Flowers: The flowers are a vibrant blue-purple contrasting beautifully with its gray-green foliage. They are borne on long, slender spikes and are highly aromatic. The tubular flowers are arranged in whorls and are particularly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Munstead Lavender typically blooms from late spring to early summer. Under ideal conditions, it may have a full second flush of blooms after the flowers of the first bloom have been harvested.

Foliage: The foliage consists of narrow, linear gray-green leaves that are aromatic and slightly fuzzy. These leaves add texture and visual interest to the plant and, because they are evergreen, allow it to provide year-round appeal in the garden.

Hardiness:  Munstead Lavender is known for its hardiness and resilience. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It can withstand cold winters and hot summers, making it a versatile choice for gardeners.

Uses: Munstead Lavender is a popular choice in gardens and beyond.

• Borders and Edging: Perfect for creating fragrant, colorful borders along pathways and garden beds.
• Focal Points: Used as a standalone feature in garden designs to draw attention with its vibrant blooms.
• Mediterranean and Cottage Gardens: Ideal for informal garden styles, adding traditional charm and resilience.
• Herb Gardens: A valuable addition to herb gardens, offering culinary uses and aromatic foliage.
• Rock Gardens: Thrives in well-drained soil, enhancing the rugged aesthetics of rocky landscapes.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
• Xeriscaping: Drought-tolerant, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
• Container Gardening: Great for patios and small spaces, providing beauty and fragrance in pots.
• Natural Pest Repellent: The strong aroma of lavender can deter pests like mosquitoes and moths, making it beneficial for gardens.
• Cut Flowers: Excellent for fresh lavender bouquets or drying.

Wildlife: The flowers are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.

Deer and Rabbits: Lavender is deer and rabbit resistant, owing to its fragrant foliage, making it an excellent choice for gardens plagued by these pests.

Drought Tolerance: This lavender is highly drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering and thriving in dry conditions.

Toxicity: Lavender contains compounds toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested in large quantities, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and lethargy. Use caution around pets.

Invasiveness: Munstead Lavender is not considered invasive. It spreads slowly through its root system and does not dominate other plants in the garden. This quality makes it a great choice for maintaining the balance of garden ecosystems.

Benefits:

• Drought Tolerant: As a water-wise plant, it’s ideal for xeriscaping and gardens where water conservation is a priority.
• Ornamental Appeal: This lavender can be used in various garden settings, from borders and containers to wildlife gardens and aromatic plantings.
• Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting the local ecosystem.
• Versatile in Crafts: Dried Munstead Lavender is commonly used in potpourri, sachets, and floral arrangements, providing both beauty and fragrance to home decor.
• Medicinal Tea: Lavender tea made from Munstead Lavender flowers can help soothe anxiety, promote relaxation, and aid digestion.

How to Grow and Care for Lavender

Light: Place Munstead Lavender in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Full sun is essential for healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Soil: Use well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.5 to 7.5). Sandy or loamy soils are ideal, as they prevent water retention.

Water: Water deeply but infrequently. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Use a low-nitrogen formula (e.g., 5-10-10) to encourage blooming without excessive foliage growth.

Pruning: Prune in early spring or after blooming in late summer. Remove dead or damaged stems and shape the plant to promote bushiness. Avoid cutting into woody stems. Prune like a pro and watch your lavender burst into vibrant blooms

Propagation: Propagate through cuttings. Cuttings taken in spring or early summer root easily in moist soil.

Pests and Diseases: Monitor for pests such as aphids and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap if needed. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases and avoid overwatering, leading to root rot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Munstead Lavender Come Back Every Year?

Yes, Munstead Lavender is a perennial plant, meaning it comes back year after year. With proper care, including pruning and adequate sunlight, it will continue to thrive and produce blooms each growing season.

What Is the Difference Between True Lavender and Munstead Lavender?

• True Lavender: This term typically refers to Lavandula angustifolia, which includes various cultivars, including Munstead. True lavender is known for its sweet fragrance and culinary uses.
• Munstead Lavender: Munstead is a specific cultivar of English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), developed by Gertrude Jekyll. It is characterized by its compact size, vibrant purple flowers, and strong aroma, making it particularly popular for gardens.

Where Is the Best Place to Plant Munstead Lavender?

The best place to plant Munstead Lavender is in a location that receives full sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. It prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a slightly alkaline pH. Good air circulation and space to grow are also important, so ensure that the plants are spaced adequately apart to prevent overcrowding.

Should I Cut Back Munstead Lavender?

Yes, it is advisable to cut back Munstead Lavender. Pruning should be done:

• In Early Spring: Before new growth begins, prune back the plant to remove dead or damaged stems and shape the plant for a bushy appearance.
• After Blooming: A light trim can be done after flowering in late summer to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Avoid cutting into the woody stems to prevent damage.

Regular pruning helps maintain the plant’s health and encourages more vigorous blooming in the following season.