Lavandula x intermedia SENSATIONAL!® (Lavandin)

Lavandula x intermedia SENSATIONAL!® stands out for its impressive size, vibrant blooms, and aromatic qualities, making it a favored choice for those looking to add a “sensational” touch to their gardens or landscapes. Its robust growth and appealing characteristics ensure that it not only beautifies the space but also serves practical uses in aromatherapy, culinary arts, and wildlife support.

Lavandin – SENSATIONAL!®: An In-depth Look

Lavandula x intermedia SENSATIONAL!® is a remarkable cultivar in the lavender family, known for its exceptionally large, thick, and silvery foliage and vibrant purple flowers. Its standout feature is the oversized flower calyxes and intense fragrance, making it a superior choice for both gardeners and landscapers.

Native: As a hybrid, Lavandula x intermedia SENSATIONAL!® doesn’t have a specific native habitat but is derived from species that originate in the Mediterranean region. This hybrid combines the best traits of its parent plants, offering enhanced vigor, size, and oil content. Lavender belongs to the mint, deadnettle, or sage family, Lamiaceae.

Plant Type and Habit: This shrub has a robust, bushy growth habit. It forms a dense, mounded shape that’s both ornamental and functional, showcasing the plant’s lush foliage and striking blooms.

Size: SENSATIONAL!® lavender reaches a height of 24-30 inches (60-75 cm) and spreads 24-36 inches (60-90 cm), making it one of the larger lavender varieties suitable for creating a significant impact in the landscape.

Flowers: The plant produces large, dense spikes of deep purple flowers prized for their strong, sweet fragrance. They are excellent for cutting, drying, and oil production. Typically, it blooms from mid to late summer, providing a longer flowering period compared to many other lavender varieties. Proper care and deadheading can extend the blooming season.

Foliage: The foliage is notably large, silver-green, and highly aromatic, adding to the plant’s sensory appeal. The leaves are broader than traditional English lavender, contributing to the plant’s “sensational” appearance.

Hardiness: This cultivar is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, making it a resilient choice for a variety of climates.

Uses: Ideal for use in gardens for mass planting, borders, or as a specimen plant, thanks to its size and visual appeal. The flowers and foliage are perfect for creating lavender oil, sachets, and potpourris, offering a strong, pleasing scent.

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

How to Grow and Care for Lavandin

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 in early spring or after flowering to maintain shape and promote vigorous growth. Cut back about a third of the current year’s growth.

Propagation: Best propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.

Lavender – Pests, Diseases, and Common Problems

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.

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