Common Lavender – Lavandula Angustifolia

Common Lavender – Lavandula angustifolia

Overview: Common Lavender, scientifically known as Lavandula angustifolia, is a beloved perennial shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It is renowned for its fragrant purple flowers, silver-green foliage, and versatility in the garden. Lavender is widely used for its aromatic and medicinal properties, as well as its ornamental value in landscaping and container gardens.

Typical Uses:

Common Lavender serves various purposes in garden and landscape design:

• As a border plant in herb gardens and perennial beds, providing structure and color
• In rock gardens and xeriscapes, adding texture and drought tolerance
• In containers on patios, decks, or balconies, offering fragrance and visual appeal
• As a source of dried flowers and essential oils for crafts, aromatherapy, and culinary uses

Establishment and Care Instructions:

Planting: Choose a site with well-drained soil and full sun. Lavender thrives in sandy or rocky soils with a neutral to alkaline pH. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.

Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to help the plant establish. Once established, Lavender is highly drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent, deep watering to avoid root rot.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and encourage dense, bushy growth. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season to promote continuous blooming.

Fertilizing: Lavender generally does not require fertilization. If soil fertility is very poor, a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring can support healthy growth.

Special Features and Usage:

Common Lavender offers several distinctive features:

• Flowers: Spikes of fragrant purple flowers bloom from late spring to early summer, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
• Foliage: Silver-green, narrow leaves provide a striking contrast to the flowers and remain attractive year-round.
• Fragrance: The plant emits a soothing, sweet aroma that is used in perfumes, sachets, and essential oils for aromatherapy and relaxation.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, Lavender is highly drought-tolerant, making it suitable for low-water landscapes.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, including occasional pruning and is resistant to most pests and diseases.
• Deer Resistance: Lavender is typically resistant to deer browsing, making it a good choice for areas with deer pressure.
• Versatile Uses: Lavender flowers can be dried for crafts, used fresh or dried in culinary dishes, and distilled for their essential oils, which have numerous therapeutic properties.