Lavandula stoechas

A small bushy, evergreen shrub growing to 0.7m tall and 0.7m wide.

Leaves are small, narrow and pointed, green or silvery in colour. They are highly scented, especially when rubbed. Flowers are produced singly throughout summer. Flowers have tufts on the top and can vary in colour depending on the cultivar chosen, either, purple, pink or white.

Best in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, lavender will tolerate drying out and coastal winds. It also tolerates clay conditions as long as they don't stay too wet.

Always choose healthy, well-grown plants and plant after autumn rains. Before planting, ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow-release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic-based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square metre as new growth begins. Planting too closely leads to spindly growth, poor flowering and eventual decline. In a well-planned border, the plants in flower should just touch each other to create a full effect without overcrowding. Plant approximately 50cm apart if planting as a hedge depending on the size of plants purchased.

Apply an organic mulch annually to help suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Feed annually in spring with a balanced fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square metre in spring as new growth begins. Trim off any old flowers after flowering to prolong flowering this can be done with the aid of a pair of shears.

Attracts many different insect pollinators to the garden.

Rabbits love new growth. Can get stem rot if planted in wet conditions.

Herb Garden