Lavandula angustifolia 'Miss Katherine' (PBR)
ABOUT
Lavandula angustifolia 'Miss Katherine' (PBR), more commonly known as English lavender, is a highly ornamental, perennial herb famed for its beauty and fragrance. This particular lavender variety stands out for its striking appearance, characterized by a profusion of flower spikes topped with distinct, plump, pink flowers. The flowers are known for their rich, sweet aroma that is beloved by gardeners and valued in the creation of perfumes and scented products. The foliage of 'Miss Katherine' is equally attractive, with narrow, lance-shaped leaves that possess a soft, silver-green color. The leaves are typically arranged in a dense, evergreen mound and can be quite bushy, providing a contrasting backdrop to the vibrant blooms. The plant's overall structure is neat, forming a compact, rounded and bushy habit that contributes to its visual appeal. The combination of its elegant flowers and aromatic leaves makes 'Miss Katherine' a popular choice for garden borders, flower beds, and as a source of cut flowers for bouquets. Additionally, it can be employed as an aromatic addition to walkways and patios where passersby can enjoy its scent. English lavender is known for its resilience and can thrive in a range of conditions, although it prefers sunny locations and well-drained soil. Owing to its striking appearance and sought-after fragrance, 'Miss Katherine' is an impeccable choice for those looking to add a touch of color and scent to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
English Lavender, True Lavender, Common Lavender
Common names
Lavandula angustifolia 'Miss Katherine' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia 'Miss Katherine') is generally recognized as safe for humans. It is not considered toxic, and when used reasonably in culinary or therapeutic contexts, it typically does not cause harm. However, ingesting large quantities of lavender or consuming its essential oil may lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and headache. Essential oils should never be ingested due to their high concentration. In addition, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, which can lead to skin irritation or respiratory issues if they are sensitive to lavender.
To pets
Lavender is not commonly toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe for animals when encountered in a garden or used in products designed for pets. However, as with any plant, if a pet were to ingest a large amount of lavender, it might experience gastrointestinal upset or vomiting. The essential oil, due to its concentrated nature, could be harmful if ingested or applied to the skin without proper dilution; it could cause symptoms such as lethargy, weakness, and in serious cases, liver damage. It is always advisable to use pet-specific products and to consult a veterinarian if there is any concern over a pet's exposure to lavender or any other plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Gray-green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet [60 cm]
Spread
3 feet [90 cm]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: With its attractive pink flowers, Lavender 'Miss Katherine' adds color and visual interest to gardens.
- Aromatic Foliage: The plant emits a pleasant fragrance that can create a soothing atmosphere in outdoor spaces.
- Attracts Pollinators: Lavender is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has low water requirements, making it suitable for xeriscaping or areas with water restrictions.
- Easy to Grow: Lavender 'Miss Katherine' is generally easy to cultivate and can thrive in a range of soil types, as long as they are well-draining.
- Culinary Uses: The flowers and leaves can be used in cooking, adding flavor to various dishes and beverages.
- Landscape Versatility: Can be used in various garden designs, including formal borders, informal cottage gardens, and as edging or container plants.
- Deer Resistance: The plant is not favored by deer, making it an excellent choice for gardens in areas with deer pressure.
Medical Properties- Antiseptic: Lavender is traditionally used for its antiseptic properties, helping to cleanse and protect wounds from infection.
- Anti-inflammatory: The essential oils in lavender can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort from conditions like arthritis.
- Anxiolytic: Lavender is well-known for its calming effects which may help relieve anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Sedative: Due to its calming properties, lavender is often used to aid with sleep disturbances and insomnia.
- Analgesic: Lavender may provide pain relief for minor aches and pains due to its analgesic properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lavender 'Miss Katherine' can be used in sachets and potpourris to impart a pleasant smell to linens and clothing.
- This variety of lavender can be infused into oils or vinegars to add a unique floral note to culinary creations.
- Dried stems and flowers of Lavender 'Miss Katherine' can be incorporated into homemade candles for natural fragrance.
- Lavender can be used as a natural dye, offering a soft purple hue to fabrics and yarns.
- The plant can be planted in outdoor garden spaces as a natural way to deter deer and rabbits.
- Lavender 'Miss Katherine' can be incorporated into natural, homemade insect repellents due to its strong scent.
- Dried lavender flowers can be used as a natural and biodegradable confetti at weddings or celebrations.
- Lavender 'Miss Katherine' can be crafted into decorative wreaths and garlands for festive occasions.
- The dried buds of 'Miss Katherine' can be used to fill decorative pillows and provide a gentle aroma to promote relaxation.
- Lavender can be used in crafting homemade soaps, providing gentle exfoliation and a calming scent.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiLavender is used in Feng Shui to promote relaxation, tranquility, and purification. It can be placed in the living room to create a calm atmosphere or in the bedroom to aid in restful sleep. Its purple color is associated with spiritual awareness and can be used in the wealth corners to attract abundance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityLavender is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Calming: Lavender, including Lavandula angustifolia 'Miss Katherine', is commonly associated with calm and tranquility, due to its soothing fragrance which is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Purity: With its delicate purple flowers, lavender is often seen as a symbol of purity and cleanliness.
- Silence: The name lavender is derived from the Latin 'lavare,' meaning to wash or cleanse, historically tied to the idea of being peaceful, quiet, or reflective.
- Devotion: Lavender represents devotion and undying love, making it a popular plant for gifts between loved ones.
- Healing: Traditionally, lavender is believed to have healing properties, symbolizing health and wellness.
- Protection: In folk beliefs, lavender was used to ward off evil spirits or as a safeguard against the evil eye.
WaterEnglish lavender should be watered sparingly, as it thrives in a dry environment. The plant should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. Depending on the climate and the season, this could mean watering every 1-2 weeks. When you do water, aim for about 1 gallon per plant if you are watering mature plants in the ground. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant.
LightEnglish lavender requires full sunlight to grow well; it prefers at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for planting English lavender would be in an area that receives unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day. Partial shade can be tolerated, but the plant's flower production and overall health are optimal in full sun.
TemperatureEnglish lavender prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging widely from 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can survive temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from harsh winter conditions. During summer, it can handle high temperatures but must have good airflow and not be exposed to excessive humidity.
PruningPruning English lavender promotes vigorous growth and prevents the plant from becoming woody. The best time to prune is in early spring just as new growth appears, or immediately after the first flowering. Prune back by about one-third to maintain a compact shape and encourage a second flush of flowers. It is usually recommended to prune lavender at least once a year.
CleaningNot needed
SoilLavender 'Miss Katherine' thrives in well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil with a neutral to alkaline pH between 6.7 and 7.3. A mix of two parts coarse sand to one part compost and one part topsoil or loam is ideal for promoting good drainage and providing nutrients.
RepottingLavender 'Miss Katherine' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and prevent it from becoming root-bound. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to maintain a compact root system.
Humidity & MistingLavender 'Miss Katherine' prefers low to moderate humidity levels, as high humidity can lead to fungal diseases. Ensuring good air circulation around the plants will help maintain the desired humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in sunny spot with well-draining soil and good air flow.
Outdoor
Grow in full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from harsh winter.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleLavandula angustifolia 'Miss Katherine' (PBR), commonly known as English lavender, starts its life cycle as a seed, which requires well-drained soil and light for germination. Once the seedling emerges and grows sufficient roots and leaves, it enters the vegetative stage, growing in size and producing characteristic gray-green foliage. The plant then matures and enters the flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, producing fragrant pink flowers that are attractive to pollinators. After pollination, these flowers produce seeds, thereby completing the reproductive stage. As a perennial, English lavender then enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, reducing its metabolic activities. The following spring, the cycle continues as the plant emerges from dormancy, ready for new vegetative growth and subsequent flowering.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Lavender, specifically the variety Lavandula angustifolia 'Miss Katherine', can be propagated through a process called softwood cuttings typically in the spring to early summer when new growth is green and flexible. To propagate, a gardener takes a cutting about 3 to 4 inches (about 7.5 to 10 cm) long from the tip of a healthy stem, stripping off the lower leaves. The base of the cutting is then dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth and planted in a mix of sand and peat or a fine-grade vermiculite, providing good drainage and aeration. The cutting should be placed in indirect sunlight and kept moist until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks. Once the roots are established, the new lavender plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
