French Lavender Lavandula stoechas subsp. stoechas
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Spanish lavender or topped lavender, is a highly aromatic evergreen shrub. Its appeal lies in both its foliage and distinctive flowers. The leaves are narrow, often a gray-green color, and can be quite dense, giving the plant a full, bushy appearance. As for the flowers, they are truly remarkable and the most distinguishing feature of Spanish lavender. They appear on spikes that rise above the foliage, with each spike topped by a set of vibrant, petal-like bracts that are often purple. These bracts are sometimes described as "rabbit ears" because of their shape and the way they stand upright at the top of the spike. Beneath these showy bracts, the actual flowers are small, tubular, and typically a more intense purple or lavender color, and they attract numerous pollinators, especially bees. The blooms are cherished not only for their color and form but also for their alluring fragrance, which is both sweet and herbaceous. All parts of the plant are aromatic, releasing their signature scent when brushed against or crushed, which makes Spanish lavender an excellent choice for walkways, gardens, and as part of sensory landscaping where touch and aroma contribute to the experience. The plant is also used in cut flower arrangements, and its dried flowers and oils are popular for their scent and potential therapeutic properties.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
French Lavender, Spanish Lavender, Top Lavender, Butterfly Lavender, Portuguese Lavender.
Common names
Lavandula pedunculata subsp. pedunculata, Lavandula pedunculata, Lavandula stoechas subsp. pedunculata, Stoechas pedunculata, Lavandula stoechas var. pedunculata, Lavandula lusitanica, Lavandula viridis, Lavandula stoechas var. lusitanica, Lavandula stoechas var. luisieri, Lavandula luisieri, Lavandula stoechas subsp. lusitanica, Lavandula pedunculata var. lusitanica, Lavandula pedunculata var. luisieri, Lavandula stoechas var. sampaiana, Lavandula pedunculata var. sampaiana, Lavandula stoechas subsp. sampaiana.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as French lavender (Lavandula stoechas subsp. stoechas) is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, individual sensitivity can vary, and some people might experience irritation or an allergic reaction when handling or ingesting the plant. French lavender contains essential oils that can be potent, so ingesting large quantities may result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. It is always advisable to be cautious and avoid consuming parts of ornamental plants due to potential adverse reactions.
To pets
French lavender (Lavandula stoechas subsp. stoechas) is typically not highly toxic to pets, but it can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large amounts. Some pets, particularly cats and dogs, may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or a decrease in appetite after consuming this plant. Due to its essential oil content, pets with a particular sensitivity could also exhibit signs of poisoning such as lethargy or coordination problems. It's recommended to keep French lavender and other ornamental plants out of reach of pets to avoid these potential issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Gray-green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Lavandula stoechas, commonly known as Spanish Lavender, has vibrant purple flowers that add color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: The plant emits a strong, pleasant scent that can enhance the sensory experience of any garden or space where the plant is grown.
- Attracts Pollinators: Spanish Lavender attracts bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollinating gardens and supporting ecosystem health.
- Drought Tolerance: Due to its Mediterranean origin, Spanish Lavender is well adapted to dry conditions, making it a good choice for water-wise landscaping.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Spanish Lavender requires minimal care, thriving even with little attention and infrequent watering.
- Culinary Uses: The flowers and leaves of Spanish Lavender can be used in various culinary preparations to add flavor and decoration to dishes.
- Aromatic Oils: Spanish Lavender contains essential oils that are used in aromatherapy for creating a relaxing and calming ambiance in spaces.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: French lavender has been traditionally used for its antimicrobial properties, where it can help to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant may have anti-inflammatory effects that can alleviate conditions such as skin inflammation when used topically.
- Anxiolytic: Its essential oil is sometimes used in aromatherapy for its potential to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Antispasmodic: It is believed to have antispasmodic properties, which can help to relieve muscle spasms and cramps.
- Analgesic: The plant has been used to help relieve pain, particularly mild pains such as headaches or joint pain.
- Expectorant: French lavender has been used to help with respiratory issues by promoting the expulsion of mucus and easing coughs.
- Sedative: Used in aromatherapy, it is thought to have sedative properties that can help improve sleep quality.
- Antiseptic: French lavender may be applied topically as an antiseptic to help with minor cuts, burns, and insect bites.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lavender can be used in cooking as a flavoring ingredient, particularly in sweet dishes and desserts such as cookies and ice cream. Its flowers provide a delicate and distinctive taste.
- As a natural fabric freshener, dried lavender sachets are placed in drawers and closets to impart a fresh scent to clothing and linens.
- Lavender has applications in natural dyeing processes, where it can be used to color fabrics and materials with hues ranging from pale green to soft yellow.
- In the craft industry, lavender stems and flowers are often incorporated into wreaths, floral arrangements, and potpourri mixtures for their scent and aesthetic appeal.
- The essential oil of lavender is utilized as a natural insect repellent, deterring moths, mosquitoes, and other pests from spaces and skin.
- Dried lavender can be used as a natural filler for a homemade heating pad or eye pillow, which, when warmed, releases its soothing fragrance.
- Lavender is utilized in perfumery and aromatherapy to create calming and relaxing atmospheres, as well as in personal fragrances and scented products.
- In gardening, lavender plants are grown as ornamental elements for their aesthetic value and to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden.
- Lavender stems can also be utilized in art projects, such as creating lavender wands or baskets by weaving the flexible stalks together.
- Finally, lavender flowers are sometimes used in homemade natural cleaning products for their antiseptic properties and fresh fragrance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe French Lavender is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe French Lavender is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Serenity: Lavender is commonly associated with relaxation and calmness, often used to reduce stress and promote peacefulness.
- Purity: The clean and crisp scent of lavender suggests cleanliness and purity, making it a symbol often used in homes and sacred spaces.
- Devotion: With its enduring fragrance and long-lasting blooms, lavender can symbolize a commitment to love or faith.
- Healing: Known for its medicinal properties, lavender symbolizes healing and is traditionally used in remedies for ailments like insomnia and anxiety.
- Protection: In folklore, lavender was thought to ward off evil spirits and is still used today to create a protective atmosphere.
- Silence: The name "lavender" comes from the Latin "lavare," meaning to wash or make quiet, promoting its association with tranquility and silence.
WaterSpanish lavender, as Lavandula stoechas subsp. stoechas is commonly known, requires deep watering every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the soil dryness and local weather conditions. It’s vital to let the soil dry out between waterings, as the plant is drought-tolerant and excessive moisture can lead to root rot. When watering, aim for about one gallon per plant to ensure the water reaches deep enough to encourage the roots to grow downwards, strengthening the plant. During hot spells or prolonged dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, but always check the soil moisture level first.
LightSpanish lavender thrives best in full sun, which means it requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for your Spanish lavender is a location where it can receive unobstructed sunlight, such as a south-facing garden bed. Avoid planting in shaded areas, as insufficient light can weaken the plant and reduce blooming.
TemperatureSpanish lavender prefers warm temperatures and does well in regions with mild winters. The plant can survive in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit but thrives in temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees. It’s essential to protect the plant from extreme cold and frost, which can damage or kill the lavender.
PruningPruning Spanish lavender is essential to maintain its shape, encourage new growth, and extend its lifespan. Prune immediately after the first flowering and again in late summer if flowers are present. The best time for a more thorough pruning is in early spring, just as new growth begins. Remove up to one-third of the older growth to keep the plant compact and to stimulate robust new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFrench Lavender thrives in well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil with a pH between 6.5 and 8. A mix of two parts coarse sand, one part perlite, and three parts compost is ideal. Ensure adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
RepottingFrench Lavender typically needs repotting every two to three years or when it outgrows its current container. Springtime is the best period for repotting to allow the plant to establish in the growing season.
Humidity & MistingFrench Lavender prefers dry conditions and does well in low humidity environments; it does not tolerate high humidity well. Aim for ambient humidity, avoiding overly humid areas to prevent disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use a sunny spot, well-draining soil; water sparingly.
Outdoor
Full sun, good drainage, protect from severe frost.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleLavandula stoechas subsp. stoechas, commonly known as Spanish lavender, starts its life cycle with seed germination, which requires well-draining soil and warm temperatures. After germination, the seedling stage involves initial root and shoot growth until the plant can produce true leaves and undergo photosynthesis. As it enters the vegetative stage, Spanish lavender grows vigorously, developing a woody stem and branching out to form a bushy structure with grey-green, aromatic foliage. The reproductive stage is marked by the production of distinctive purple flower spikes topped with petal-like bracts in late spring or early summer, attracting pollinators. After pollination, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the cycle. Spanish lavender is a perennial, so it can regrow from the woody base for several years before it might need replacing due to woody overgrowth or decline in vitality.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating French lavender (Lavandula stoechas subsp. stoechas) is through softwood cuttings. This process is usually done in late spring or early summer when new growth is tender but has not yet hardened. Gardeners cut a 3- to 4-inch (7.5-10 cm) portion of the stem, ensuring there are several sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the base of the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix, with the lower leaf nodes buried. The environment should be kept humid by covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator. Roots typically develop in a few weeks, after which the new plant can be transferred to a larger pot or planted directly in the garden.
