Lavender Lavandula × intermedia Anniversary Bouquet
ABOUT
The Lavender variety known as Anniversary Bouquet is a visually striking plant known for its exceptional floral display. This Lavender boasts a profusion of long flowers spikes that rise elegantly above the foliage. The flowers themselves are a rich and deep purple color, occasionally showing lighter purple to pinkish tones, which lend a vibrant and colorful aspect to the plant. The blooms are densely packed with small, tubular flowers clustered tightly together along the spikes, giving a sense of fullness and abundance. The foliage of Anniversary Bouquet Lavender is equally attractive, comprised of narrow, grayish-green leaves that have a soft, sometimes silvery sheen. The leaves are lance-shaped and provide a perfect muted backdrop that further accentuates the brilliance of the floral display. This foliage emits the classic, soothing scent typical of Lavender, which is cherished by gardeners and often associated with relaxation and calm. The plant exhibits a bushy and robust habit, creating a rounded and mounded form that is orderly and dense, ensuring that the blanket of foliage is consistent and lush. This creates an excellent foundation for the flower show that takes place above. The individual flower spikes emerge on stiff stems which hold them upright and make them sway gracefully with the breeze, adding a dynamic and soft movement to the overall appearance of the plant. Overall, Anniversary Bouquet Lavender presents a harmonious blend of color, form, and scent, resulting in a garden specimen that is both aesthetically appealing and sensually engaging. Whether planted en masse, as a hedge, or as a standalone feature, this Lavender is certain to attract attention and provide a focal point in any garden setting.
About this plant
- Names
Synonyms
Anniversary Bouquet Lavender, Lavandin Anniversary Bouquet.
Common names
Lavandula × intermedia Anniversary Bouquet.
- Toxicity
To humans
Lavandin is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and cooking. However, in excessive amounts, any part of the plant, if ingested, could potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. The essential oil, due to its high concentration, can be particularly harmful if ingested and should be used with caution. Symptoms of poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Skin contact with the concentrated oil may result in irritation or an allergic reaction.
To pets
Lavandin is usually safe around pets as it is not commonly listed as a toxic plant for animals such as cats and dogs. Ingestion in small amounts typically does not cause harm, but eating large amounts of the plant could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The essential oil, though, due to its concentration, can be harmful if ingested or applied to the skin, causing symptoms such as lethargy, drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea in pets. It is best to keep essential oils out of reach to prevent any accidental ingestion or topical reactions.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Gray-green
Flower color
Lavender
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Attracts Pollinators: Lavandula × intermedia Anniversary Bouquet is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden, which is crucial for pollination.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its vibrant purple flowers and neat foliage, it adds visual interest and beauty to landscapes and gardens.
- Fragrance: The plant emits a pleasant, soothing scent that can create a calming atmosphere in outdoor spaces.
- Drought Resistance: It is tolerant to dry conditions once established, making it suitable for water-wise gardens and low-maintenance landscaping.
- Deer Resistance: Due to its aromatic oils, it is generally resistant to deer, which can benefit gardeners in areas with deer populations.
- Culinary Uses: The flowers can be used in cooking for flavoring dishes, often in desserts or as a garnish, though this can vary between different varieties of lavender.
- Easy Propagation: The plant can be easily propagated from cuttings or by division, allowing gardeners to expand their gardens sustainably.
- Long Blooming Period: It offers a long blooming season, providing color and interest in the garden for an extended time.
- Crafts and Decoration: The dried flowers can be used in potpourri, sachets, and other decorative crafts.
- Garden Design: It is versatile and can function as a border plant, ground cover, or a component of herb and perennial gardens.
- Medical Properties
- Antiseptic: The essential oil of the plant is known to have antiseptic properties, which can inhibit the growth of bacteria and other pathogens.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant may have anti-inflammatory effects which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Analgesic: Lavender oil, derived from lavandula plants, is sometimes used for pain relief.
- Antispasmodic: The plant may have antispasmodic properties, which could relieve muscle spasms.
- Anxiolytic: The aroma of lavender is often considered to have a calming effect, which may help alleviate anxiety.
- Sedative: Inhalation or topical application of lavender oil is sometimes used for its sedative effects to promote relaxation and sleep.
- Anti-depressive: Lavender's aromatic properties are also explored for potential anti-depressive effects.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Lavandin can be used in crafting natural moth repellents, as the smell that is pleasant to humans can deter moths and protect clothing.
- In aromatherapy, lavandin oil is utilized to create a calming atmosphere during yoga or meditation sessions.
- It can be employed as a hair rinse after shampooing to impart a pleasant fragrance and to potentially promote scalp health.
- The plant's flowers are used to add flavor and color to herbal teas, offering a unique taste experience.
- Lavandin buds can be used to stuff homemade sachets, which can be tucked into drawers or closets for long-lasting fragrance.
- The essential oil is sometimes incorporated into natural cleaning products for its scent and potential antibacterial properties.
- Lavandin can be used as a culinary herb in small quantities to add a unique and aromatic flavor to desserts like ice cream or cookies.
- Lavandin flowers can be crafted into natural garlands or wreaths, providing a rustic and aromatic decoration for homes.
- The dried stems and flowers can be burnt as incense, providing a relaxing and pleasant aroma similar to lavender.
- Lavandin oil can be added to homemade candles for a DIY aromatherapy experience.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Lavender is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Lavender is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Peace and Tranquility: Lavandula, commonly known as Lavender, is often associated with peace and tranquility, as its soothing scent is believed to calm the mind and reduce stress.
- Purity: The clean and fresh fragrance of Lavender signifies purity and cleanliness, making it a common choice in cleansing rituals and practices.
- Devotion: Lavender symbolizes devotion and undying love, making it a popular plant in wedding bouquets and celebrations of affection.
- Silence: Historically, Lavender was believed to preserve silence and is often used in commemorative events to honor remembrance in quiet reflection.
- Healing: Due to its therapeutic properties, Lavender has been considered a symbol of healing, both emotional and physical.
- Protection: In folklore, it is said to ward off evil spirits and is frequently used in protective sachets and talismans.
- Water
Lavender Anniversary Bouquet prefers dry conditions and should not be overwatered. It is important to water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During active growing seasons in spring and summer, watering once every 1 to 2 weeks with around 1 gallon of water per plant is adequate. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to every 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the climate and weather conditions. Always avoid letting the plant sit in waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.
- Light
Lavender Anniversary Bouquet thrives in full sun conditions. It requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this plant is in a location where it receives unobstructed sun exposure throughout the day. In regions with very hot summers, afternoon shade may be beneficial to prevent scorching.
- Temperature
Lavender Anniversary Bouquet does best in temperate conditions and can survive minimum temperatures down to around 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for this lavender variety is between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, slightly cooler at night. It can tolerate heat up to about 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but consistently higher temperatures can stress the plant.
- Pruning
Pruning Lavender Anniversary Bouquet is essential for maintaining plant health and promoting robust growth. Prune annually in the early spring just as new growth begins, cutting back by about one-third to encourage new growth and prevent woodiness. Also, after flowering, trim the plant to shape it and remove spent flower stalks. The best time for major pruning is in the spring, although light pruning can be done whenever necessary throughout the year.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for Lavender (Lavandula × intermedia Anniversary Bouquet) is well-draining with a mix of coarse sand, perlite, and compost. The soil pH should be slightly alkaline, around 7.0 to 8.0.
- Repotting
Lavender (Lavandula × intermedia Anniversary Bouquet) should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound to encourage growth and prevent overcrowding.
- Humidity & Misting
Lavender (Lavandula × intermedia Anniversary Bouquet) thrives in low to moderate humidity conditions and is tolerant of dry air, which mimics its native Mediterranean environment.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, minimal watering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from harsh winter.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
- Life cycle
Lavandula × intermedia Anniversary Bouquet, commonly known as Lavender Anniversary Bouquet, begins its life as a seed that germinates in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight. Once the seedling emerges, it enters a vegetative stage, developing a small rosette of leaves and establishing a root system. As it matures, the plant enters the growth phase, where it develops woody stems, a bushy form, and aromatic leaves through which it carries out photosynthesis. During spring and summer, the plant reaches the flowering stage, producing long stems topped with spikes of fragrant purple flowers that attract pollinators and are commonly harvested for their oils. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds that mature, and once they are released, the plant has completed its reproductive cycle. As a perennial, Lavender Anniversary Bouquet will enter a period of dormancy in the colder months before restarting its growth cycle in the following spring.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-early summer
Lavender 'Anniversary Bouquet', a hybrid Lavandula × intermedia variety, can be propagated most effectively via softwood cuttings. This method is usually carried out in late spring or early summer. First, a healthy, non-flowering shoot is selected and a cutting of about 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.5 to 10 cm) is taken just below a node. The lower leaves are removed, and the base of the cutting is dipped in a rooting hormone to enhance root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that a few leaf nodes are buried where roots will form. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the cutting should be placed in a warm, bright area without direct sunlight. With proper care, roots will typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new lavender plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.