Lavender

Lavandula angustifolia · Herb

A fragrant Mediterranean shrub grown for its purple flower spikes and silvery leaves. It loves sun, heat and poor, dry soil; rich soil and wet feet are what usually kill it. Bees and butterflies visit it all summer.

Care at a glance

Light

Full sun, at least 6–8 hours

Water

Deeply but rarely once established

Soil

Lean, very well-drained, pH 6.5–7.5

Temperature

Hardy to about 0 °F (English types); dislikes humid heat

Spacing

18–24 in apart

Container

At least 12 in wide with drainage, terracotta ideal

Bloom

Blooms early to mid summer

Lifespan

5–10 years

When?

Plant young plants in spring after the last frost, or in early fall in mild climates so roots settle before winter. Seeds are slow and uneven; nursery plants are easier.

Step by step

1. Pick the sunniest, best-drained spot; raise the bed or add grit on heavy soil.
2. Plant at the same depth as in the nursery pot.
3. Water regularly the first season, then only in long dry spells.
4. Skip rich fertilizer; a little compost at planting is enough.
5. Harvest stems when the first flowers open for the best scent.
6. Trim by about a third after flowering, never into old bare wood.
7. In pots, move to a sheltered spot in hard winters.

Common problems

Pets

Listed as toxic to cats and dogs; eating larger amounts can upset the stomach. Concentrated oils are a bigger concern than the plant. If in doubt, ask your vet.

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