Lavandula angustifolia Platinum Blonde (Lavender)

Lavandula angustifolia Platinum Blonde combines the beloved characteristics of English lavender—fragrant flowers and beneficial pollinator attraction—with the added appeal of variegated foliage, making it a distinctive and valuable addition to any garden.

English Lavender – Platinum Blonde: An In-depth Look

Lavandula angustifolia Platinum Blonde is notable for its striking variegated foliage and traditional lavender flowers. This English lavender variety brings a fresh twist with its creamy yellow-edged leaves, paired with the classic lavender fragrance and blooms.

Native: This cultivar, like its species Lavandula angustifolia, is native to the Mediterranean region but has been specifically bred to excel in garden performance. Lavender belongs to the mint, deadnettle, or sage family, Lamiaceae.

Plant Type and Habit: This shrub showcases a compact, bushy growth habit. It forms neat, rounded mounds, making it an eye-catching addition to any garden with its unique foliage and vibrant flowers.

Size: Platinum Blonde reaches a modest height of 16-24 inches (40-60 cm) and spreads 16-18 inches (40-45 cm), making it an ideal choice for small spaces and for adding structure without overwhelming the garden.

Flowers: Platinum Blonde produces the characteristic deep purple Lavandula angustifolia flowers, known for their fragrance and attractiveness to pollinators. The blooms create a beautiful contrast with the plant’s variegated leaves. The blooming period extends from late spring to early summer, offering a delightful display of color and scent. With proper care, including deadheading, it may rebloom in late summer.

Foliage: The variegated foliage is the standout feature of Platinum Blonde, with leaves boasting creamy yellow margins against a green center. This variegation adds visual interest and brightness to garden spaces.

Hardiness: This cultivar is hardy in USDA zones 6-9, making it a resilient choice for a variety of climates.

Uses: Ideal for bringing contrast and interest to garden beds, borders, and containers with its unique foliage and flowers. While primarily grown for its ornamental value, the flowers can be used in culinary applications, and the plant is excellent for crafting bouquets and potpourris.

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: English lavender is not considered invasive. It grows well where planted without spreading aggressively.

How to Grow and Care for English Lavender

Light: Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight daily).

Soil: Well-drained, sandy, or gravelly soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Excellent drainage and air circulation are essential, specifically in hot, humid climates. Lavender tolerates dry soils.

Water: Allow soil to dry out between watering. Established plants are drought-tolerant.

Fertilizer: Minimal fertilization is needed. Apply a light, slow-release fertilizer in early spring, if at all.

Pruning: Prune lightly in early spring to shape and again after flowering to encourage dense growth.

Propagation: Best propagated by cuttings in summer.

English Lavender – Pests, Diseases, and Common Problems

English Lavender is relatively low-maintenance but can encounter some pests, diseases, and common problems

Pests

• Aphids: These insects can cause curling and distortion of the leaves and stems, as well as the production of sticky honeydew.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves, as well as the formation of webbing.
• Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, sap-sucking insects often found on the undersides of leaves, where they feed on plant sap and excrete sticky honeydew.
• Thrips: These insects feed on the plant’s flowers, causing them to become deformed and discolored.

Diseases

• Septoria leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause small, dark spots on the leaves, which can eventually cause them to turn yellow and drop off.
• Root rot: Overwatering and poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can create a powdery white coating on the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off.

Common Problems

Woody Growth: Lavender becomes woody with age. Regular pruning can delay this, but plants may need replacing every few years.
Insufficient Blooming: Often due to too much nitrogen or insufficient sunlight. Ensure full sun and avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Legginess: Caused by inadequate light. Plant in a location that receives full sun to promote compact growth.