Fernleaf Lavender Lavandula multifida
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Fernleaf Lavender features a stunning appearance, characterized by its unique, highly dissected, fern-like silver-green leaves that give it a soft, lacy look. The plant has a bushy growth habit, creating a rounded and full overall shape. On top of the aromatic foliage, the Fernleaf Lavender produces captivating violet-blue flowers that are held in small, delicate, rounded clusters on long stems, which stand out above the leaves. These flowers have slender spikes and are beloved for their strong, sweet fragrance, which is reminiscent of traditional lavender but with a somewhat piney and camphorated twist. The blossoms are particularly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, adding motion and additional interest to the plant's visual display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Fernleaf Lavender, Egyptian Lavender, French Lace Lavender
Common names
Lavandula multifida var. canescens, Lavandula pinnata var. canescens, Lavandula multifida var. tyrrhena, Lavandula canescens, Lavandula luisieri, Lavandula pedunculata var. luisieri
ToxicityTo humans
Lavandula multifida is commonly known as Fernleaf Lavender. Generally, lavender plants are not toxic to humans. However, like many plants, it can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in some individuals when touched. If ingested in very large amounts, it could potentially cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Essential oils derived from lavender, if consumed, can be toxic and should not be ingested. It is always advisable to exercise caution and keep essential oils and plants out of the reach of children who may accidentally swallow them.
To pets
Fernleaf Lavender is not considered highly toxic to pets. However, the essential oils in lavender can be harmful if ingested in large quantities. In dogs and cats, ingestion of lavender may lead to gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. Also, essential oils can be especially potent and dangerous for cats due to their particular metabolism. It is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting this plant and to be cautious with the use of essential oils around them. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of lavender and is showing signs of poisoning, contact your veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Lavandula multifida, commonly known as Fernleaf Lavender, has a unique fern-like leaf structure and vibrant purple flowers that can add striking visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: The plant’s aromatic leaves and flowers emit a pleasing fragrance, which can enhance the sensory experience of a garden or outdoor space.
- Culinary Uses: The flowers and leaves of Fernleaf Lavender can be used to flavor a variety of dishes and are sometimes used in gourmet cooking.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The flowers provide a source of nectar for bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
- Drought Tolerance: As a Mediterranean-native plant, Fernleaf Lavender is well adapted to dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardening.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Lavandula multifida is known for its antimicrobial properties, helping inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
- Anti-inflammatory: Due to certain compounds within the plant, it may have anti-inflammatory effects on the body.
- Anxiolytic: Lavandula multifida may possess anxiolytic properties, which could help in reducing anxiety.
- Antiseptic: The plant can be used for its antiseptic qualities to clean wounds and prevent infection.
- Carminative: It may help in relieving digestive issues like gas and bloating.
- Analgesic: Lavandula multifida is sometimes used for its potential analgesic effects to alleviate pain.
- Sedative: The plant can have a calming effect on the body, potentially acting as a mild sedative.
- Antispasmodic: It might be used to relieve spasms, especially in the digestive system.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Repellent: The strong scent of Lavandula multifida, commonly known as fernleaf lavender, is used to repel moths and other insects from closets and drawers.
- Culinary Flavoring: Though not as common as other lavender species, the leaves and flowers can be used to add a unique flavor to desserts, jellies, and beverages.
- Linen Freshener: Dried fernleaf lavender can be placed in sachets to freshen laundry and impart a pleasant fragrance to bed linens and towels.
- Natural Dye: The flowers of fernleaf lavender can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, yielding hues of blue and green.
- Crafting: Dried stems and flowers can be incorporated into floral arrangements, wreaths, and potpourris for decoration and scent.
- Relaxation: The aromatic properties of fernleaf lavender can be used in baths or as part of a relaxation routine to create a calming atmosphere.
- Moth Deterrent: The potent aroma is naturally disliked by moths, making it a great option for protecting woolen clothes.
- Incense: When burned, it emits a distinctive, calming fragrance that can be used for aromatherapy or as part of spiritual practices.
- Companion Planting: Fernleaf lavender can be used in gardens to help repel certain pests from neighboring plants due to its strong scent.
- Fragrance Production: Essential oils extracted from fernleaf lavender are used in perfumery to contribute to complex scent profiles.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Fernleaf Lavender is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Fernleaf Lavender is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Calmness: Fernleaf Lavender is often associated with tranquility and peace, possibly due to the soothing effects of its aromatic oils which are used in relaxation practices like aromatherapy.
- Cleansing: Historically, the lavender plant has been used in purification rituals and to ward off evil spirits, lending the plant a symbolic meaning of cleansing both physical and spiritual spaces.
- Devotion: Lavender can symbolize devotion and undying love, making it a popular plant in wedding ceremonies and romantic occasions.
- Healing: With its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, Fernleaf Lavender is commonly associated with healing, both physically and emotionally.
- Beauty: Due to its aesthetic appeal and delightful fragrance, lavender often represents beauty and elegance in various cultural contexts.
WaterFernleaf Lavender should be watered sparingly since it is a drought-tolerant species that thrives with less water, typical of Mediterranean-origin plants. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, which could mean watering once every 1-2 weeks, depending on climate conditions. When watering, do so deeply, ensuring the water penetrates the soil to reach the roots. You might need approximately half a gallon per plant per watering session for mature plants, ensuring not to waterlog the soil as this can lead to root rot.
LightFernleaf Lavender requires full sunlight to thrive, so it is best placed in a spot where it gets at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A south-facing position is ideal to provide the plant with the intense light it needs for optimal growth and flowering.
TemperatureFernleaf Lavender fares well in a wide range of temperatures but prefers warm conditions. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20°F but for healthy growth, keeping it in an environment where temperatures range between 60°F and 80°F is ideal. It may need protection if there are sustained periods of extreme cold below 20°F.
PruningPruning Fernleaf Lavender is essential for promoting bushy growth and maintaining an attractive shape. It should be pruned lightly in early spring or after the first flowering to encourage a second bloom. Remove any dead or woody stems, cutting back by about one-third to one-half, but avoid cutting into old wood which may not produce new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Fernleaf Lavender is well-draining soil with a mix of sand, perlite, and compost to improve aeration and drainage. An ideal soil pH for Fernleaf Lavender should be between 6.5 and 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingFernleaf Lavender should generally be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when it has outgrown its current pot. This will ensure adequate space for root growth and proper nutrient availability.
Humidity & MistingFernleaf Lavender prefers dry conditions and will thrive in low humidity environments typical of Mediterranean climates. Optimal humidity levels are between 30-50%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide full sun, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, ensure soil drains well, and space plants apart.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleLavandula multifida, commonly known as Fernleaf Lavender, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs best in warm, well-drained soil, typically in spring. After germination, the seedlings grow into young plants with distinctive lacy, fern-like foliage and begin to establish a strong root system. In the vegetative stage, the plant develops its woody stems and a bushy form, and the leaves become fragrant when brushed against or crushed. Fernleaf Lavender reaches maturity and starts to bloom in late spring or early summer, producing tall spikes of small, purple, highly aromatic flowers that are attractive to bees and butterflies. After flowering, the plant sets seeds, which may be dispersed by wind or collected for propagation. In colder climates, this perennial plant may die back in winter but will regrow from its hardy base in the spring, continuing its life cycle for several years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Lavandula multifida, commonly known as fernleaf lavender, is best propagated through cuttings. To propagate fernleaf lavender, the ideal time is late spring to early summer when the plant is in active growth. Take a cutting of about 3-4 inches (about 7.5-10 cm) from new, but mature, non-flowering stems. Strip the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving a few at the top, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix or a vermiculite/perlite mixture. Ensure the soil is moist, but not wet, and place the cutting in a warm, indirect light environment. Roots should develop within a few weeks, after which it can be transplanted to a permanent location.
