Spanish Lavender Lavandula × cadevallii Fairy Wings Pink = 'Fw Radiance' (Fairy Wings Series)
ABOUT
Lavandula × cadevallii Fairy Wings Pink, commonly known as 'Fw Radiance' from the Fairy Wings Series, is a visually appealing variety of lavender. It is characterized by its strikingly vibrant, pink flowers that form tufted, plump flower heads. These blooms exude a delightful fragrance and are held aloft on slender, elegant stems, providing a contrast to the gray-green foliage below. The leaves of this lavender are narrow, elongated, and have a silvery hue, contributing to the plant's soft and whimsical texture. As a member of the Fairy Wings Series, 'Fw Radiance' maintains the enchanting charm typical of these cultivars, inviting a touch of magic to any garden setting with its delicate and colorful presence. The mound-like growth habit of the plant creates a compact and bushy appearance, with the flowers and foliage densely packed together to form a lush, ornamental display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Pink Fairy Wings Lavender, Fairy Wings Pink Lavender, 'Fw Radiance' Lavender
Common names
Lavandula × cadevallii Fairy Wings Pink = 'Fw Radiance' (Fairy Wings Series).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Lavender (Lavandula) is generally not considered toxic to humans. It is widely used in culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal applications. However, ingestion of large quantities of lavender flowers, leaves, or oils could potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort or irritation. The essential oils can be particularly potent and should be used with caution, as they could lead to allergic reactions, dermatitis, or other sensitivities when handled improperly or ingested. It's always important to use lavender in moderation and consult with healthcare providers before using it therapeutically, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with existing health conditions.
To pets
Lavender (Lavandula) is typically not toxic to pets, and is sometimes used in products designed for animals because of its calming properties. However, ingestion of large amounts of the plant can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset in some animals. The essential oils found in lavender are more concentrated and can be harmful if ingested or applied topically to pets, particularly cats, which lack certain enzymes necessary to process certain compounds present in essential oils. Symptoms of poisoning from essential oils might include lethargy, difficulty walking, or a decrease in appetite. While the plant itself isn't highly toxic, pet owners should still be cautious and prevent pets from ingesting large amounts of the plant, or any amount of the essential oil. If ingestion of significant amounts occurs, or if there are concerns about essential oil exposure, contacting a veterinarian is advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Grey-green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Lavandula × cadevallii Fairy Wings Pink adds a burst of color with its vibrant pink flowers, enhancing the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: This plant emits a pleasant scent that can create a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere in outdoor spaces.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems and aiding in pollination.
- Drought Tolerance: It is relatively drought-tolerant, making it a good choice for low-water gardens and xeriscaping.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels, including those seeking low-maintenance landscaping options.
- Culinary Use: The plant's flowers and leaves can be used in cooking, adding unique flavor to various dishes.
- Herbal Use: Though not medicinal, the plant can be used in herbal preparations such as sachets and potpourris for its fragrance.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Infused Cooking Oils: The leaves of the Spanish Lavender can be infused into oils for a fragrant touch in culinary creations, adding a unique flavor to salads or cooking.
- Pressed Flower Crafts: The flowers can be pressed and used in creating bookmarks, greeting cards, or decorative pieces for their beauty and scent retention.
- Scented Candles: Dried Spanish Lavender flowers can be incorporated into candle making for a natural, calming aroma.
- Flavoring Honey: Fresh blossoms can be steeped in honey to create flavored honey, which can be used in teas or as a spread.
- Natural Fabric Dye: The flowers can be used to produce a soft, natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of pink and purple hues.
- Photography Prop: The vibrant flowers can serve as an attractive prop for botanical photography and artistic compositions.
- Drawer Sachets: Dried flowers can be filled in sachets to freshen up drawers and wardrobes, adding a mild, lasting fragrance to clothing.
- Garden Mulch: After pruning, the spent foliage and stems can be used as a fragrant mulch in the garden, which can also deter some pests.
- Bath Additive: The flowers can be added to bathwater for a relaxing and aromatic bath experience.
- Decorative Potpourri: Dried Spanish Lavender can be mixed with other dried plants to create a decorative and aromatic potpourri for the home.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lavender is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lavender is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Calmness: Lavender is commonly associated with calmness and tranquility due to its soothing scent which is often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Purity: The color and delicate form of lavender flowers are often linked with purity and cleanliness, making it a symbol of virtue.
- Devotion: With its enduring and long-lasting fragrance, lavender can represent steadfastness and devotion in relationships.
- Healing: Historically, lavender has been used for its medicinal properties, symbolizing healing and restoration of health.
- Serenity: Lavender promotes a peaceful and serene atmosphere, which is why it's often used in spaces designed for relaxation and meditation.
- Grace: The elegant and graceful appearance of lavender flowers symbolize beauty and refinement.
- Silence: The association of lavender with quiet and restful places makes it a symbol of silence and contemplative spaces.
- Protection: In folk traditions, lavender was thought to ward off evil spirits, and it was used in protective sachets.
- Love: Lavender can also represent love and adoration, especially in the language of flowers where giving lavender can imply a declaration of one's love.
WaterThe Fairy Wings Pink Lavender should be watered deeply but infrequently to mimic the natural conditions of its Mediterranean origin. The soil should be allowed to dry out between watering. On average, provide about 1 inch of water every week during the growing season, adjusting based on weather conditions such as rainfall or high temperatures. In pots, ensure that excess water can drain away to prevent root rot. During the winter, reduce watering significantly since the plant is dormant and uses less water.
LightFairy Wings Pink Lavender thrives in full sun conditions, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for planting is a south-facing garden that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing it in areas with heavy shade or constant indirect light, as this can affect its growth and blooming.
TemperatureFairy Wings Pink Lavender prefers a temperature range between 60°F and 70°F but can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F and as high as 90°F. This plant is fairly hardy, but it is best to protect it from extreme cold by providing mulch or cover if frost is anticipated. Ideal growth is achieved when daytime temperatures are warm with cooler night temperatures.
PruningPruning helps to maintain the shape of Fairy Wings Pink Lavender and encourages healthy growth and blooming. Trim the plant lightly after it flowers to remove spent blooms and shape the plant. An annual pruning in early spring, cutting back about a third of the plant, can prevent it from becoming woody. The best time for major pruning is after the last frost but before the onset of new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLavender (Lavandula) thrives in well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, around 6.7 to 7.3. A mix of two parts coarse sand or perlite and one part compost or organic matter can create an ideal environment for growth.
RepottingLavender should be repotted every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current container. Use a slightly larger pot to provide enough room for the roots to spread.
Humidity & MistingLavender prefers a dry climate with low humidity levels. It is tolerant of dry air conditions typical of most indoor environments and does not require additional humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place lavender near a sunny window; ensure proper drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA.
Life cycleLavandula × cadevallii Fairy Wings Pink, commonly known as Lavender 'Fw Radiance,' begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in warm, well-drained soil with adequate light. The seedlings emerge and grow into young plants, establishing a strong root system and vegetative growth including distinctive silver-green foliage. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, producing attractive pink flowers that attract pollinators and are valued for their fragrance and ornamental quality. After the blooming period, the plant sets seeds which can be collected for propagation or allowed to fall naturally, potentially giving rise to new plants. In areas with suitable climates, Lavender 'Fw Radiance' can continue to grow as a perennial, experiencing a phase of dormancy in colder months and resuming active growth with the return of warmer temperatures. Pruning is essential after flowering to maintain shape and encourage robust new growth for the next season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Lavender Fairy Wings Pink is through softwood cuttings. This process typically takes place in late spring or early summer when new growth is soft and pliable. A gardener would select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 2-4 inch (5-10 cm) section just below a node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cutting is often dipped in a rooting hormone to enhance root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a well-drained soil mix or perlite and kept moist and warm until roots develop, which can take a few weeks. Softwood cuttings provide an effective way to clone the mother plant and ensure the progeny have the same desirable characteristics.
