Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead' |
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Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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| | Common Name: Lavender-English |
Rich lavender flower spikes fill the air with their sweet, intoxicating fragrance all summer long. Though this cultivar was introduced to the trade in 1916, it remains one of the most popular today. Its compact habit and relatively short stature makes it a good choice for edging. This is often said to be the hardiest variety of all Lavender. It is very similar to 'Hidcote'.
Lavender has been grown for centuries for its intensely fragrant flowers and beautiful appearance. It is a staple item of every sunny garden, and its dried flowers are widely used in potpourris and arrangements.
Origin: Not Native to North America
Characteristics:
Height:
12-16 Inches
Spread:
12 Inches
Flower Color:
Purple shades
Foliage Color:
Green shades
Sun or Shade?:
Full sun (> 6 hrs. direct sun)
Wet or dry?:
Low water needs
Want to see wings?:
Attracts butterflies
Need critter resistant plants?:
Deer resistant
Rabbit resistant
How fast should it grow?:
Medium
When should it bloom?:
Late spring
Early summer
Midsummer
Late summer
Looking for seasonal interest?:
Evergreen (in some or all zones)
How's your soil?:
Poor Soil
Sweet or Sour Soil?:
Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)
Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)
What's your garden style?:
Container/Patio
Formal
Eclectic
Lavender must be grown in full sun to be able to produce flowers, so do not hesitate to plant them in those hot, dry areas where nothing else seems to grow. They will actually grow better in poor, gravelly soil than in rich humus; don't be tempted to enrich the soil when you plant it. Sharp drainage, especially in winter, is essential for preventing crown rot. Other than that, Lavender is known to have few problems with pests and diseases. Shearing back the evergreen foliage in early spring will rejuvenate plants and stimulate new growth.
The name Lavender comes from the Latin word "to wash." Lavender was commonly used to scent soap.
Though lavender is often used in potpourri, its flowers are also edible. They add a sweetly perfumed to spicy taste in both savory and sweet foods and drinks.