Lavandula angustifolia

1. Brief Description

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as “true lavender” or (incorrectly) “English lavender,” is a perennial, woody-based shrub distinguished by its fragrant flowers and narrow grey-green foliage.

It is widely used in landscape applications for both aesthetic and functional purposes, such as attracting bees and other beneficial insects.

2. Botanical Information

• Taxonomy: Family Lamiaceae (mint family), Genus Lavandula

• Scientific name: Lavandula angustifolia Mill. (synonym: Lavandula officinalis Chaix)

• Common names: English lavender, true lavender, narrow-leaved lavender

• Native range: Western Mediterranean region, particularly the Spain–France–Pyrenees area

• Morphology: Grey-green, narrow, obovate leaves; flowers terminal, spike-shaped, purple to lavender in color

• Chromosome number: 2n = 54

• Chemical composition: Essential oil is rich in components such as linalool and linalyl acetate

  
  

3. Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers full sun; low tolerance to shade

• Soil: Well-drained, sandy-loam or slightly calcareous soils with neutral to mildly alkaline pH; growth is poor in consistently wet or heavy clay soils

• Water: Drought-tolerant once established, though regular watering is required during establishment; excess moisture or standing water may harm root health

• Climate: Adapted to cool winters and warm summers; USDA hardiness zones approximately 5–9

• pH Sensitivity: Optimal growth occurs at pH > 6

  
  

4. Care Guidelines

• Pruning: After flowering (mid-summer), prune approximately one-third of the plant to maintain shape and prevent excessive woody growth

• Watering: Minimal irrigation needed for established plants; newly planted specimens require regular but moderate watering until roots are established. Avoid water accumulation

• Soil & Drainage: Ensure excellent drainage to allow root aeration; mulching with gravel or sand is recommended

• Pests & Diseases: Generally a resilient species; risk of root rot increases in overly wet conditions. Exposed woody stems may desiccate during cold winters

• Renewal: For plants aged 5–7 years, rejuvenate with new shoots as older woody stems may flower less

• Additional Uses: Flowers can be harvested for aromatherapy, cosmetics, or dried floral arrangements; proper timing of flowering harvest is essential

5. Landscape Use

• Hedges and Borders: Suitable for defining garden edges, pathways, or fence lines with aesthetic appeal.

• Rock Gardens: Ideal for rocky areas due to its drought tolerance and compact growth habit.

• Aromatic and Pollinator Gardens: Flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects, making it valuable in ecological garden designs.

• Fragrance and Visual Focal Points: Provides pleasant scent and visual emphasis with its purple flowers along garden paths or entrances.

• Dry Gardens: Low water requirements make it suitable for water-efficient landscape designs.