It’s lavender time! Nothing beats the incredible fragrance of lavender, one of our most popular perennial plants. It is drought, deer and bunny resistant, making it a favorite for many gardeners and many different styles of gardens. Whether you want a butterfly, cutting, apothecary, herb, cottage or Mediterranean garden these sun lovers are an excellent choice.
English lavender is the most popular in North America as it tolerates both the heat and humidity of our climate. English lavender is commonly used in cooking, baking, sachets and soaps.
As with all lavenders it should be planted in full sun and well-drained soil. Lavenders do not like heavy wet soil. Varieties include ‘Hidcote’ with silvery foliage and dark purple flowers and ‘Munstead’ which has a compact habit and violet-purple flowers. Both known for their strong fragrance.
French lavender is commonly seen in the fields of the Provence region in the south of France. Taller than the 
English varieties they are grown for their perfume. They tend to tolerate the heat better, but like to be drier than the English forms. ‘Grosso’ is a popular form that makes a big statement in the garden growing 36” tall and wide and is very fragrant with dark purple flowers . ‘Provence’ , named for the region, has flowers that are a light lavender and grows tall and slender with foliage is used for its oil.
Whichever you choose it is sure to be Scent-sational!