Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender or true lavender, is a beloved and fragrant flowering plant prized for its beautiful purple flowers and soothing aroma. This lavender species features narrow, gray-green leaves and produces tall, slender stems topped with dense spikes of purple flowers in summer. It's a popular choice for gardens, borders, and containers, and its essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy and perfumes. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family (the mint family).
Origin: Lavandula angustifolia is native to the Mediterranean region.
Light: Lavandula angustifolia thrives in full sun. It prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Water: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water thoroughly when you do water, ensuring any excess drains away. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in heavy or poorly drained soils.
Soil: Lavandula angustifolia prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil. It thrives in alkaline to neutral soil with a pH between 6.7 and 7.3. Avoid heavy clay soils, which can retain too much moisture.
Fertilising: Lavandula angustifolia is not a heavy feeder. Fertilise sparingly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning: Regular pruning is essential to maintain the shape and promote bushier growth. Prune lightly after flowering, removing spent flower stalks and trimming back any leggy growth. In early spring, you can prune back harder to shape the plant.
Pests and Diseases: Lavandula angustifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but keep an eye out for root rot, especially in poorly drained soils.
Uses: The flowers and essential oil of Lavandula angustifolia are widely used in aromatherapy, perfumes, soaps, and other products. Lavender is known for its calming and relaxing properties.
Toxicity: While generally considered safe for humans, Lavandula angustifolia can be toxic to cats and dogs. It contains linalool and linalyl acetate, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, and vomiting in pets if ingested. It's important to keep lavender plants out of reach of pets and to contact a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.