About
Lavandula lanata, the woolly lavender, is an evergreen dwarf shrub to 75 cm with white-woolly stems and leaves. Long-stemmed, aromatic spikes of dark-purple flowers are produced in summer. A striking and ornamental lavender for a sunny, very well-drained position in a sheltered garden.
About the genus
Lavandula, the lavenders, are small, aromatic, evergreen shrubs with narrow leaves � entire, toothed or pinnately lobed � and dense spikes of tubular flowers, mainly in shades of lavender, purple and white, in summer. Widely grown for their fragrance, flowers and attractive foliage.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toSpain
FragranceFlower, Foliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in a sheltered, sunny position. In colder areas, may need protection from very low temperatures and excess winter wet. Also suitable for growing in containers that can be overwintered in an unheated greenhouse. See lavender cultivation for further advice
PruningPruning group 10; deadhead after flowering. Trimming in late summer prevents plants from becoming straggly, but you can leave plants for a season to benefit wildlife with seeds or as shelter if you prefer. Avoid pruning in autumn in wet or cold regions as this may leave plants vulnerable to winter damage. Avoid cutting back into old wood
PropagationPropagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in spring. Take semi-ripe cuttings in summer. See our video How to take lavender cuttings for more advice
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to rosemary beetle and cuckoo spit (froghoppers)
Disease resistanceHigh Risk Host for Xylella fastidiosa. May be susceptible to grey moulds (Botrytis) and honey fungus (rarely)