Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia · Lamiaceae
📷 Isiwal · CC BY-SA 4.0
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant lavender: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Lavandula angustifolia
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen, grey-green, very fine
- Flowering
- June to August, purple or pink flowers
- Adult size
- 60 cm height, 45-50 cm width
- Hardiness
- Excellent (-15°C)
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin
- Growth
- Fast to moderate
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability high.
Expert tips
The key tip
Lavender gradually deteriorates. Adding gravel or coarse sand at planting is almost essential.
The common mistake
Watering regularly 'to help' the plant: winter water rots the roots.
The pro's trick
After flowering (late August), cut back hard to 15 cm from the ground to rejuvenate: this will boost compactness and lifespan.
Care
Light Exposure
True lavender demands a south-facing location in full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours daily. Partial shade reduces flowering and encourages fungal diseases. Plant it on a mound or in raised beds to prevent waterlogging.
Watering
Very undemanding, Lavandula angustifolia tolerates drought well once established. Water regularly when first planting (3-4 weeks), then gradually reduce frequency. In summer or dry climates, light watering every 10-14 days is sufficient. Avoid excess moisture at all costs.
Soil
Lavender prefers well-draining, light soil that is slightly chalky or neutral. It thrives in poor or rocky terrain. Amend your soil with coarse sand or gravel to improve drainage, especially in humid climates or heavy soils.
Pruning
Prune after flowering (late August-September) to maintain compact form and prevent bare patches. Cut back a third of the stem length without cutting into dead wood. Pinch young plants regularly to encourage branching. A light winter trim also helps tidy up the plant.
Feeding
Lavender is not demanding and thrives without excessive fertilization. A very light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Prefer light organic mulch or compost if your soil is particularly poor.
Diseases and Pests
Lavender is highly resistant to pests and diseases. Watch out for powdery mildew and root rot in excessively humid conditions. Improve air circulation and drainage to prevent these issues. Specific treatment is generally unnecessary.
Did you know?
True lavender was already used by the Romans to perfume their baths and clothing: in fact, its name derives from the Latin 'lavare' (to wash). In the Middle Ages and Renaissance, it gained a reputation as a magical plant believed to ward off evil spirits, and bouquets were placed under pillows to purify the air and promote sleep—a forgotten practice well worth rediscovering!
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- RosemarySalvia rosmarinus
- SageSalvia officinalis
- ThymeThymus vulgaris
- BasilOcimum basilicum
- BugleAjuga reptans
- Wall germanderTeucrium chamaedrys
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.