Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia
A hardy, drought-tolerant shrub for a sunny, free-draining spot. It grows best in light soil, and hates sitting wet in winter.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Lavender
Planting Calendar
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Plant Out
Plant rooted cuttings or young plants around in a sheltered, sunny spot. Set them at the same depth they were growing before, and firm the soil gently so the roots make good contact. Water in thoroughly straight away.
Water Through Establishment
Keep the plants just moist through , checking them in dry spells. Water at the base rather than over the foliage, and stop once the plants are clearly rooted and making new growth.
Deadhead Spent Stems
Remove faded flower spikes from to keep the plant tidy and extend the display. Cut back to a side shoot or just above fresh growth, but do not cut into old bare wood.
Prune After Flowering
Prune straight after flowering from . Trim the green growth back lightly to keep a neat mound, but always leave some leafy growth on each stem because lavender will not reshoot from old wood.
Tidy For Winter
Tidy the plant from by removing dead flower stalks and any damaged growth. Leave the woody framework in place, and do not hard cut the shrub back.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Lavender.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Lavender to consider
Hidcote
Compact with deep purple flowers and a neat habit, good for borders and pots.
Munstead
A classic early-flowering English lavender with a low, rounded shape.
Arctic Snow
A white-flowered form that gives a softer look in mixed plantings.
Rosea
A pink-flowered lavender for a lighter colour scheme.
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