Lavandula x intermedia Phenomenal (Lavendin)

Blooming before most other Lavandin cultivars, Phenomenal Lavender, also known as Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’, is a stunning variety that has gained popularity among gardeners and herbal enthusiasts for its resilience, fragrant blooms, and versatility.

Phenomenal Lavender is a great choice for the landscape due to its exceptional winter survival. Its foliage does not have the winter dieback commonly seen in other hardy lavenders.

Phenomenal Lavender (Lavandin): An In-depth Look

Phenomenal Lavender is a hybrid lavender known for its exceptional hardiness and adaptability. It features long, slender flower spikes that produce an abundance of vibrant purple blooms, which are highly aromatic. The foliage is aromatic as well, with narrow, gray-green leaves that provide an attractive backdrop to the stunning flowers.

Native: Phenomenal Lavender is a hybrid derived from a cross between English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and other lavender species. While the parent species are native to the Mediterranean region, the hybrid itself has been cultivated and selected for its unique qualities, making it popular in gardens across various climates. Lavender belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which includes many aromatic herbs like basil, rosemary, oregano, mint, and sage.

Plant Type and Habit: Phenomenal Lavender is a perennial herb or evergreen shrub that produces flowers each growing season. The plant typically grows in a compact, bushy, upright form, with an open habit that allows for good air circulation.

Size:  Phenomenal Lavender typically reaches a height of 24 to 30 inches (60 to 76 cm) and can spread about 30 to 36 inches (76 to 91 cm) wide. This size makes it suitable for borders, garden beds, or as a focal point in landscapes.

Flowers: The flowers of Phenomenal Lavender are characterized by their spikes, 5 inches long (12 cm), of sweet-scented bright violet-blue flowers. The flowers are borne on tall spikes and have a tubular shape, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Phenomenal Lavender typically blooms from mid to late summer. It often produces a second flush of blooms in late summer or early fall, extending the flowering season.

Foliage: The foliage consists of narrow, elongated gray-green leaves. The leaves are aromatic and slightly fuzzy, adding to the plant’s visual interest. The foliage remains evergreen in mild climates, providing year-round interest.

Hardiness: Phenomenal Lavender is known for its exceptional hardiness, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. It is particularly resilient to cold temperatures and can tolerate heat and humidity, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.

Uses: Phenomenal Lavender is a popular choice for ornamental gardens due to its vibrant purple blooms and pleasant fragrance. It can be used in various landscape designs, including:

• Borders: Ideal for creating borders along pathways or garden beds.
• Focal Points: Planted as a focal point in flower beds to attract attention and add color.
• Rock Gardens: Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for rock gardens and xeriscaping.
• 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: Phenomenal 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:

• Cold-hardy: Phenomenal Lavender is known for its exceptional hardiness, making it a popular choice for gardeners in a variety of climates.
• Drought Tolerant: As a water-wise plant, it’s ideal for xeriscaping and gardens where water conservation is a priority.
• Versatile: Phenomenal 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.

How to Grow and Care for Lavender

Light: Place Phenomenal 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 Phenomenal Lavender 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

How Big Does Phenomenal Lavender Get?

Phenomenal Lavender typically grows to a height of 24 to 30 inches (60 to 76 cm) and can spread about 30 to 36 inches (76 to 91 cm) wide. This size makes it suitable for borders, garden beds, and as a focal point in landscaping.

Do You Cut Back Phenomenal Lavender?

Yes, it is recommended to cut back Phenomenal Lavender. Pruning should be done in early spring before new growth begins and again after flowering in late summer. This helps maintain the plant’s shape, promotes bushiness, and encourages healthy blooms. Avoid cutting into the woody stems to prevent damage.

Can Phenomenal Lavender Survive Winter?

Phenomenal Lavender is known for its hardiness and can survive winter in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. To ensure its survival, it’s advisable to mulch around the base in late fall to insulate the roots, particularly in colder climates.

How Long Does It Take Phenomenal Lavender to Bloom?

Phenomenal Lavender typically begins to bloom in mid to late summer. The blooming period can last several weeks, and with proper care, it may produce a second flush of blooms in late summer or early fall.