Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia (English lavender) — Bushy

Overview

Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia is a bushy shrubs 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 subsp. angustifolia grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include gravel garden, mediterranean climate plants, city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, wildlife gardens, garden edging, banks and slopes and flower borders and beds. It is native to France and Italy.

About

Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia is a strongly aromatic evergreen shrub in the Lamiaceae, grown for its fragrant flower spikes. It typically reaches about 1.2 m with a spread near 0.6 m. Flowering is from June to September, producing purple spikes. Plant in full sun on well-drained soil and choose a sheltered, south-, east- or west-facing spot.

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.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lavandula

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrubs
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 1.2 m
Spread: 0.6 m
Suggested uses: Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens, Garden edging, Banks and slopes, Flower borders and beds
Native to: France, Italy

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia

Propagation: Seed sown in a cold frame in spring, Semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistance: Rosemary beetle, Cuckoo spit (froghoppers)
Disease resistance: Grey moulds (Botrytis), Honey fungus (rarely)

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia?

Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia need?

Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How big does Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia grow?

Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia reaches a height of 1.2 m and a spread of 0.6 m.

Is Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia hardy in the UK?

Lavandula angustifolia subsp. angustifolia 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 subsp. angustifolia?

Seed sown in a cold frame in spring, Semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.

More in the Lavandula genus

Browse all Lavandula →