Spanish Lavender Lavandula stoechas 'Victory'
ABOUT
The Lavender 'Victory' is a picturesque plant, celebrated for its unique and enchanting appearance. This variety showcases a profusion of flower spikes that rise prominently above its foliage. The flowers are a deep and vivid purple that captivates the eye, adding vibrancy to any garden space. Topping each flower spike, there are distinct, larger, petal-like bracts, often referred to as "wings," which are colored similarly to the flowers themselves, giving the appearance of a butterfly perched atop the plant. The leaves of the Lavender 'Victory' are quite attractive in their own right. They are slender, elongated, and typically a silvery-green hue that contrasts beautifully with the purple flowers. This provides a lovely backdrop that emphasizes the blooms and adds to the overall allure of the plant. The aromatic qualities of this plant are yet another sensory pleasure, as it exudes the classic, soothing fragrance for which lavenders are renowned. The scent is often described as a sweet, floral aroma with herbal notes, and it is strong enough to permeate the surrounding area, especially on warm, sunny days when the oils are most volatile. Overall, the Lavender 'Victory' offers a striking visual with its vivid blooms and contrasting foliage, along with its enchanting fragrance, making it a favorite among gardeners and a treasure in any landscape setting where its beauty can be showcased.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Spanish Lavender, French Lavender, Top Lavender, Butterfly Lavender, Stoechas Lavender
Common names
Lavandula stoechas 'Victory'.
ToxicityTo humans
Spanish Lavender is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large amounts can potentially lead to mild discomfort, such as nausea or abdominal pain. While most people can handle Spanish Lavender without issues, some may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation from handling the plant or its oils. It is important to use Spanish Lavender as intended, and ingestion in large quantities is not advisable.
To pets
Spanish Lavender is generally considered non-toxic to pets. It is not known to be poisonous if ingested by cats or dogs, and they will likely not experience symptoms of serious poisoning. Nevertheless, as with all plants not intended for animal consumption, ingestion in large quantities might cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If a pet consumes a notable amount of Spanish Lavender and exhibits symptoms, it is wise to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
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: Adds vibrant purple color and unique flower structure to gardens and landscapes.
- Aromatherapy: The scent is calming and can be used in essential oils for aromatherapy practices.
- Attracts Pollinators: Serves as a natural attractant for bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, has low water requirements, making it suitable for xeriscaping and dry climates.
- Culinary Uses: Flowers and leaves can be used in cooking to add flavor to various dishes.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care other than occasional pruning and is relatively pest and disease-free.
Medical Properties- Antimicrobial: Lavender is commonly believed to possess antimicrobial properties, which can help in inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
- Antiseptic: Due to essential oils present in lavender, it can act as an antiseptic that may contribute to preventing infections.
- Anxiolytic: Lavender has been traditionally used to help alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
- Sedative: It may exhibit sedative effects, potentially assisting with sleep disorders and promoting relaxation.
- Anti-inflammatory: Some components in lavender might help to reduce inflammation and soothe skin conditions.
- Analgesic: There is some evidence to suggest that lavender can provide pain relief, particularly for headaches and migraines.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lavender can be used to repel insects naturally; when placed in closets or drawers, it can help protect clothes from moths and other pests.
- The flowers of lavender can be used in crafting; they are often included in potpourri blends for their fragrance and color.
- Lavender can serve as a natural fabric freshener when dried flowers are placed in small sachets.
- Lavender can be used in cooking; the flowers can add a floral, slightly sweet flavor to baked goods and desserts.
- The plant can be incorporated into floral arrangements and wreaths for decorative purposes due to its appealing color and fragrance.
- Lavender stems can be used as natural fire kindling due to their woody structure and essential oils which can aid in combustion.
- Dried lavender flowers are often used as a natural sleep aid; a sachet under a pillow may help improve sleep quality.
- The vivid hue of lavender can be used as a dye for textiles and crafts, providing a soft purple color to fabrics and materials.
- Lavender can be added to homemade soaps and bath products for scent and as an exfoliating agent.
- The plant can be used in landscaping for xeriscaping, as it is drought-tolerant and adds color and fragrance to low-water gardens.
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- Calmness: Lavender is often associated with tranquility and calmness, as its fragrance is commonly used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Purity: The color and delicate nature of lavender flowers can symbolize purity and cleanliness.
- Silence: Lavender is sometimes used to represent silence, likely due to the effect its calming scent has on creating a serene atmosphere.
- Devotion: The plant is often associated with devotion and undying love, making it a common choice in wedding bouquets and arrangements.
- Healing: Historically, lavender has been used for medicinal purposes, so it can symbolize healing and the relief of pain or discomfort.
- Protection: Lavender has also been used in various cultures for protection, whether it be from evil spirits or simply to ward off insects due to its strong scent.
WaterThe Spanish Lavender 'Victory' should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. This typically means watering once every week or two, depending on climate conditions and soil type. When watering, aim to provide about one gallon of water per plant, ensuring even distribution around the base without waterlogging the soil. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to let the soil dry to the touch before applying more water. During the hotter, drier months, you may need to water more frequently, but always check the soil moisture first.
LightSpanish Lavender 'Victory' thrives in full sunlight, needing a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of direct sun each day. The ideal spot is in an open area that receives unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing it in shade or areas with high contrasting light to maintain its health and promote flowering.
TemperatureSpanish Lavender 'Victory' prefers warm temperatures and will do best in conditions ranging from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 10 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost to prevent damage. The ideal temperature range ensures vibrant growth and ample blooming.
PruningPruning Spanish Lavender 'Victory' encourages bushy growth and abundant flowering. Prune in the spring after the last frost and again in the late summer after flowering. Cut back about a third of the growth to shape the plant and remove any spent blooms or dead wood. The optimal time for pruning is when new growth starts but before the plant has fully leafed out.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFrench Lavender prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 8. A mix of equal parts potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite or pumice creates an optimal environment for root health.
RepottingFrench Lavender should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current pot, to refresh the soil and promote continued growth.
Humidity & MistingFrench Lavender thrives best in low to moderate humidity conditions, typical of its Mediterranean origin, and does not require high humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use well-draining soil and place in a sunny spot.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun with good air circulation.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleLavandula stoechas, commonly known as Spanish Lavender or 'Victory', begins its life cycle as a seed, which, upon germination, develops into a seedling with rudimentary leaves. As it matures into a vegetative state, the plant grows larger, with a woody base and a proliferation of grey-green leaves. The vegetative phase is followed by the flowering stage, typically in late spring to early summer, when it produces its distinctive purple flower spikes with petal-like bracts at the top. After pollination, which is often aided by bees and butterflies attracted to the blooms, the flowers develop into fruit that contains seeds. These seeds are then dispersed, by wind or animal activity, to begin the next generation. The plant is perennial, so after flowering, it enters a period of dormancy in the colder months, only to begin a new growth cycle with the return of warmer weather.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The most popular method of propagating the Spanish Lavender 'Victory' is through softwood cuttings. This is usually done in late spring or early summer when new growth is soft and pliable. To propagate, a healthy non-flowering shoot is selected and a cutting of about 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.5 to 10 cm) long is taken. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting are removed and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. A plastic bag or a propagator can be used to create a humid environment around the cutting until roots develop, which typically takes a few weeks. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
