Silvery, fragrant and alive with bees all summer — the classic low hedge for a sunny, free-draining spot. Cut the flowers for drying or the kitchen.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 60 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About English Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia is a moderate-growing shrub in the Lamiaceae family. It reaches around 60 cm tall at maturity, with evergreen, silver-grey and aromatic foliage. Purple flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow English Lavender
English Lavender suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit English Lavender provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
English Lavender is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune English Lavender after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using English Lavender in the garden
English Lavender earns its place for its fragrance, feeding bees and pollinators, a fast screen or informal hedge, cut flowers for the vase and edible harvests.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair English Lavender with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and Mediterranean climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.