ShrubsLavandula stoechas
French Lavender
French Lavender is distinguished by its striking butterfly-like bracts atop compact flower spikes. The plant blooms from May to September, much longer than common lavender, and releases a delightful fragrance. The grey-green aromatic foliage is evergreen in mild climates.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 40–70 cm
- Spread
- 40–60 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 7–10
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- purple
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in light, well-drained soil. The plant is less hardy than common lavender and needs protection in severe frost. Water very sparingly — wet soil is fatal. In colder regions, consider growing in a pot for winter shelter.
Pruning tips
Lightly prune after each flowering flush to encourage new buds. Carry out a more thorough prune in spring, cutting back a third of the plant. Never cut into bare wood — it will not recover.
Good companions
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.
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.
HerbsThymus vulgaris
Common Thyme
Common thyme is a compact, evergreen herb with small aromatic leaves and pink to white flowers. The plant is indispensable in the herb garden and blooms in June and July, when bees flock to it in droves. Thyme thrives best on dry, lean soil in full sun.