Lavandula × intermedia
Lavandin is a natural hybrid between English lavender and spike lavender. It forms larger shrubs with longer flower spikes and a later summer bloom. Its fragrance is strong and often has a camphor note. It performs best in full sun and very well drained, alkaline to neutral soil. Plants are vigorous and productive for dried bundles and oil. Cold tolerance is good for a hybrid but strongest growth comes in warm, dry sites.
At‑a‑glance
Group/Class: Lavandin hybrid
Height × spread: 24 to 48 in × 24 to 48 in (60 to 120 cm × 60 to 120 cm)
Bloom window: mid to late summer
Color & flower form: lavender to violet spikes, often long and showy
Fragrance: 3 strong
USDA hardiness: zones 5 to 8
Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, natural hybrid of L. angustifolia × L. latifolia, Europe
Cut-flower notes: long, sturdy stems; dries well; fresh vase life varies by cultivar and handling
Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Blooms later than true lavender in most climates
- Taller plants with longer spikes and strong stems
- Scent commonly more camphoraceous than true lavender
- High yield for essential oil and dried bundles
Strengths
- Heat tolerant compared with true lavender
- Abundant flowering on long stems
- Drought tolerant once established
- Useful for informal low hedges
Care in one minute
- Plant in full sun and lean, well drained soil at neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
- Irrigate to establish, then water deeply and infrequently.
- Clip spent spikes after bloom to keep plants compact.
- Avoid rich fertilizers; excess nitrogen reduces flowering.
- Provide winter drainage and wind protection in cold sites.
Watch‑outs
- Requires excellent drainage to avoid root rot
- Can suffer winter injury in exposed sites
- May lodge without a light post-bloom trim
Best uses (tags)
cutting; low hedges; pollinators; slopes; large containers
Provenance note
Recognized in Europe where the parent species overlap; widely grown for oil and dried stems.
References
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Lavandula × intermedia
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder: Lavandula × intermedia ‘Provence’
- MDPI review: Volatile compounds and sensory notes of Lavandin
- ASPCA: Lavender plant toxicity
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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