Overview
Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem' is a bushy perennial shrub in the genus Lavandula, part of the Lamiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall and 0.6 m wide. Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and 6.5-7.5 pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, herb gardens, containers and dried flowers. It is native to Mediterranean region.
About
Lavandula angustifolia, formerly L. officinalis, is a flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae, native to the Mediterranean basin.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lavandula angustifolia
About the genus
Lavandula is a genus of 47 known species of perennial flowering plants in the sage family, Lamiaceae. It is native to the Old World, primarily found across the drier, warmer regions of the Mediterranean, with an affinity for maritime breezes.
Wikipedia contributors, "Lavandula", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lavandula
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Lavandula
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- 6.5-7.5
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial shrub
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 1.2 m
- Spread
- 0.6 m
- Suggested uses
- Borders, herb gardens, containers, dried flowers
- Native to
- Mediterranean region
- Fragrance
- Strong, sweet, floral, herbal
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil, avoid overwatering, mulch in winter
- Pruning
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness
- Propagation
- Cuttings, layering
- Pest resistance
- Rosemary beetle, Cuckoo spit (froghoppers)
- Disease resistance
- Grey moulds (Botrytis), Honey fungus (rarely)
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem'?
Prefers well-drained soil, avoid overwatering, mulch in winter.
Where is the best place to plant Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem'?
Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem' need?
Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers 6.5-7.5 soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem'?
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
How big does Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem' grow?
Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem' reaches a height of 1.2 m and a spread of 0.6 m.
Is Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem' hardy in the UK?
Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Lavandula angustifolia 'Imperial Gem'?
Cuttings, layering.
More in the Lavandula genus
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Torramhor'Lavender
- Lavandula dentata 'Evermlv19'Fringed Lavender
- Lavandula stoechas 'Giant Summer' (Butterfly Garden Series)
- Lavandula stoechas 'Sweetberry Ruffles' (Ruffles Series)French lavender 'Sweetberry Ruffles'
- Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifoliaEnglish lavender
- Lavandula stoechas LaVela Compact Dark Violet ('Klelv15115'PBR)Spanish Lavender
- Lavandula x ginginsii 'Downderry Velvet'
- Lavandula x int. 'Edelweiss'Lavender