ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 30–60 cm
- Spread
- 30–45 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 5–9
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- purple, blue
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Water sparingly — lavender dislikes wet feet. Apply a light lime dressing in spring. Protect young plants during their first winter with a layer of mulch.
Pruning tips
Prune immediately after flowering in August by cutting back the flower stems and the top third of the foliage. Never cut into old wood — it will not regrow. A second light trim in spring keeps the plant compact.
Good companions
ShrubsRosa gallica
Gallica Rose
The Gallica Rose is one of the oldest cultivated rose species, grown since the Middle Ages. Its semi-double, vivid red-pink flowers appear in June and July and carry an intense fragrance. Decorative rose hips develop after flowering.
PerennialsSalvia nemorosa
Woodland Sage
Woodland Sage is a compact perennial with striking purple-blue flower spikes blooming from June to August. It attracts plenty of bees and butterflies and works well in sunny borders. Cutting back spent flower stems often triggers a second flush of blooms.
PerennialsNepeta × faassenii
Catmint
Catmint is a tough border plant with grey-green, aromatic foliage and soft blue flower plumes. It blooms from May to September, making it one of the longest-flowering perennials. Bees love the flowers and cats are drawn to the leaves.