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Lavandula angustifolia
True lavender (English group)
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: True lavender (English group)
- Height × spread: 24 to 36 in × 24 to 36 in (60 to 90 cm × 60 to 90 cm)
- Bloom window: late spring to early summer
- Color & flower form: purple to violet spikes on slender stems
- Fragrance: 3 strong
- USDA hardiness: zones 5 to 8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, unknown, Mediterranean region
- Cut-flower notes: stems firm when cut just before full bloom; dries well; fresh vase life varies by cultivar and handling
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Blooms earlier than lavandin types in many climates
- Most cold hardy species commonly grown in North America
- Sweeter fragrance with lower camphor than lavandin and spike lavender
- Narrower leaves and a neater, low mound
Strengths
- Cold tolerant to zone 5 with excellent drainage
- Drought tolerant once established
- Nectar rich; attracts bees and butterflies
- Usually deer and rabbit resistant
Care in one minute
Choose full sun with open airflow.
Plant in very well drained, sandy or rocky soil at neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Water new plants weekly, then only during prolonged dry spells.
Keep mulch away from the crown and avoid wet feet.
Shear lightly after bloom to maintain shape.
In cold climates focus on winter drainage and avoid hard fall pruning.
Watch‑outs
- Root and crown rot in heavy or wet soils
- Can be short lived in humid summers without airflow
- Declines if mulched tightly against the crown
Best uses (tags)
Provenance note
Native to the western Mediterranean and long cultivated as a source of essential oil. Often called true lavender in trade.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder: Lavandula angustifolia
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Lavandula angustifolia
- Kew Science POWO: Lavandula angustifolia
- ASPCA: Lavender plant toxicity
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