Common Name: English lavender

Type: Herbaceous perennial

Family: Lamiaceae

Native Range: Europe

Zone: 5 to 8

Height: 2.00 to 3.00 feet

Spread: 2.00 to 4.00 feet

Bloom Time: June to August

Bloom Description: Purple

Sun: Full sun

Water: Dry to medium

Maintenance: Medium

Suggested Use: Herb

Flower: Showy, Fragrant

Leaf: Fragrant

Attracts: Butterflies

Tolerate: Rabbit, Deer, Drought, Dry Soil, Shallow-Rocky Soil, Air Pollution

Culture

Dear Lykkers. English lavender thrives in well-drained, alkaline soil under full sun. While it is a hardy plant, achieving optimal growth requires careful attention to its environment. In regions with harsh winters or high summer humidity, like St. Louis, the plant may struggle. Proper drainage, especially during colder months, is critical to prevent root rot—a common issue when soil remains soggy.

Lavender prefers light, sandy soil with low fertility. Overly rich soils can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms. To maintain the plant's health and encourage abundant flowering, ensure the soil is neither too heavy nor overly fertile.

Regular maintenance is essential for lavender to retain its shape and vibrancy. Faded flowers should be promptly removed to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Each spring, prune the plant to shape it after new leaves appear. Every three years, trim it back to about 8 inches to control its size and encourage robust new growth.

High summer humidity can be challenging for lavender. To combat this, use rock mulch instead of organic mulch, which can retain excessive moisture. The rocky mulch allows for better air circulation around the base of the plant, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly referred to as English lavender, has been cherished in herb gardens for centuries. Despite its name, it is not native to England but originates from the Mediterranean region. Its ability to adapt to the English climate earned it its moniker.

This "true lavender" is highly valued for its essential oils, which are widely used in perfumes and aromatherapy. Its flowers and foliage are commonly included in sachets, potpourris, and even culinary dishes. English lavender varieties are particularly popular for culinary purposes, offering a unique flavor to dishes and desserts.

This semi-woody perennial grows between 1.5 and 3 feet tall, with narrow, gray-green leaves that contrast beautifully with its vibrant purple blooms. Flower spikes appear in late spring to early summer, filling the garden with their intoxicating fragrance. In warmer climates, the leaves remain evergreen, providing year-round visual interest.

Problems

English lavender, though hardy, is susceptible to certain problems if not grown in ideal conditions. Leaf spot and root rot are among the most common issues, often arising from overly moist or poorly drained soils. During winter, plants can fail if temperatures drop below zero without a protective layer of snow cover.

To minimize these risks, ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering. In areas with harsh winters, consider providing additional protection, such as mulching with straw or relocating plants to a sheltered spot.

Uses

English lavender is an exceptionally versatile perennial, fitting seamlessly into a variety of garden designs. Its gray-green foliage and purple blooms add a splash of color and texture to perennial borders, rock gardens, herb gardens, and scented gardens. When planted en masse, it creates a stunning visual and aromatic display.

Lavender's compact growth habit makes it an excellent choice for low hedges or edging along pathways. Its fragrant flowers add charm to any garden walkway, while its evergreen leaves provide structure even in the off-season.

The fragrant blooms of English lavender are perfect for drying. Once dried, the flowers can be used in sachets, potpourris, and even wreaths, filling indoor spaces with their calming aroma. Lavender's versatility makes it a favorite for DIY projects and crafts.