Lavandula lanata ‘Boiss’ / Lavandula tomentosa – Woolly Lavender

Description

Lavandula lanata is a dwarf, evergreen shrub up to 3.3 feet (1 m) tall, with white-woolly stems and leaves. The flowers are dark purple, borne on narrow spikes and give off the familiar lavender scent.

HARDINESS: USDA hardiness zone 8a to 10b: from 10 °F (?12.2 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).

HOW TO GROW AND CARE:

As with most plants, your success in growing this coveted plant will depend both on what kind of growing conditions you can provide and which varieties you select to grow. Lavender plants will tolerate many growing conditions, but they thrive in warm, well-drained soil and full sun.

Like many plants grown for their essential oils, a lean soil will encourage a higher concentration of oils. An alkaline or especially chalky soil will enhance lavender’s fragrance.

Although most Lavenders are labeled hardy in USDA Zones 5 – 9, while you can grow Lavender in USDA Hardiness Zone 5, it is unlikely you will ever have a Lavender hedge. More realistically you can expect to have plants that will do well when the weather cooperates and to experience the occasional loss of a plant or two after a severe winter or a wet, humid summer.

Lavender is a tough plant and is extremely drought-resistant, once established. However when first starting you Lavender plants, don’t be afraid to give them a handful of compost in the planting hole and to keep them regularly watered during their first growing season.