Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso' (Lavandin Grosso) — Bushy

Overview

Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso' is a bushy shrub in the genus Lavandula, part of the Lamiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, hedging, herb gardens and essential oil production. It is native to hybrid of Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia.

About

Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso' (Lavandin Grosso) is a shrub cultivar of the Lavandula genus, known for its strong, camphoraceous fragrance. This hybrid between Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia thrives in full sun and well-drained, sandy or loamy soils with neutral to alkaline pH. It is hardy to UK zone H5 and tolerates dry to medium soil moisture. Suitable for borders, hedging, herb gardens, and essential oil production, it prefers a south-facing aspect and can grow in sheltered to exposed conditions. Pruning after flowering helps maintain its shape and encourages bushiness.

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: well-drained, sandy or loamy
Soil pH: neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture: dry to medium
Aspect: south-facing
Exposure: sheltered to exposed
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: shrub
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Suggested uses: borders, hedging, herb gardens, essential oil production
Native to: hybrid of Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia
Fragrance: strong, camphoraceous, aromatic

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso'

Cultivation: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid heavy, wet soils.
Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness; avoid cutting into old wood.
Propagation: semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistance: Rosemary beetle, Cuckoo spit (froghopper nymphs)
Disease resistance: Honey fungus, Grey moulds, Lavender shab, Fungal leaf spots

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso'?

Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid heavy, wet soils.

Where is the best place to plant Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso'?

Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered to exposed positions.

What soil does Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso' need?

Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso' grows best in well-drained and sandy or loamy soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays dry to medium.

How do I prune Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso'?

Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness; avoid cutting into old wood.

Is Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso' hardy in the UK?

Lavandula intermedia 'Grosso' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.