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Lavandula pedunculata subsp. pedunculata

French lavender ( syn. Lavandula Papillon )

20% off
Perfect for pollinators
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From fat, round flowerheads, slender mauve petals emerge like butterfly wings, fluttering in the breeze among the aromatic, grey-green leaves. Like most French lavenders, Lavandula pedunculata subsp. pedunculata is earlier flowering than its English cousins, but when they are planted together, they will offer a prolonged season of interest.

The flower-spikes are also a magnet for bees and other nectar-loving insects - and they look wonderful when planted en masse in a protected, sunny border where their heady fragrance can be enjoyed. In colder regions, grow it in a pot so it can easily be moved to a cool greenhouse or conservatory during the winter.

How to care for Lavandula pedunculata subsp. pedunculata:

French lavender thrives in well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil in a sunny, sheltered spot. It’s less hardy than English lavender, so in colder regions, grow it in pots that can be moved to an unheated greenhouse or conservatory over winter.

Water sparingly, as it dislikes soggy roots, especially in winter. After flowering, remove faded flower stems to encourage a neat shape, and in spring (around April), lightly trim back the previous year’s growth, being careful not to cut into old wood, as this may prevent regrowth.

Mulching with gravel rather than organic matter can help keep the base dry and protect the roots from excess moisture.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
0.6m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:

Full sun

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)

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