Lavandula x intermedia 'Grosso' |
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Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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| | Common Name: Lavender-English |
Plump, violet-blue flower spikes fill the air with their sweet fragrance. 'Grosso' is a cross between L. angustifolia and L. latifolia and is a larger plant overall than these species. Its long flower stems make this variety especially good for use in bouquets.
L. intermedia tends to bloom a bit later in the summer than other lavenders with a possible repeat bloom towards fall. These hybrids were first developed in France for use in perfumes and essential oils.
Lavender has been grown for centuries for its intensely fragrant flowers and beautiful appearance. It is a staple item of every sunny garden, and its dried flowers are widely used in potpourris and arrangements.
Origin: Not Native to North America
Characteristics:
Height:
24-30 Inches
Spread:
18-24 Inches
Flower Color:
Purple shades
Foliage Color:
Green shades
Sun or Shade?:
Full sun (> 6 hrs. direct sun)
Wet or dry?:
Low water needs
Want to see wings?:
Attracts butterflies
Need critter resistant plants?:
Deer resistant
Rabbit resistant
How fast should it grow?:
Medium
When should it bloom?:
Midsummer
Early fall
Looking for seasonal interest?:
Evergreen (in some or all zones)
How's your soil?:
Poor Soil
Sweet or Sour Soil?:
Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)
Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)
What's your garden style?:
Container/Patio
Formal
Eclectic
Lavender must be grown in full sun to be able to produce flowers, so do not hesitate to plant them in those hot, dry areas where nothing else seems to grow. They will actually grow better in poor, gravelly soil than in rich humus; don't be tempted to enrich the soil when you plant it. Sharp drainage, especially in winter, is essential for preventing crown rot. Other than that, Lavender is known to have few problems with pests and diseases. Shearing back the evergreen foliage in early spring will rejuvenate plants and stimulate new growth.
The name Lavender comes from the Latin word "to wash." Lavender was commonly used to scent soap.
Though lavender is often used in potpourri, its flowers are also edible. They add a sweetly perfumed to spicy taste in both savory and sweet foods and drinks.