Lavandula stoechas 'Purple'

Lavandula stoechas 'Purple'

14cm nursery pot

Plant Highlights: Distinctive purple flower heads • Aromatic evergreen foliage • Long flowering season • Excellent for bees and butterflies • Ideal for sunny, free-draining gardens

Overview

Lavandula stoechas 'Purple', commonly known as French or Spanish Lavender, is a compact evergreen shrub grown for its aromatic grey-green foliage and distinctive deep purple flower spikes topped with showy petal-like bracts. Flowering from late spring into summer, it brings vibrant colour, fragrance and Mediterranean character to sunny gardens while providing a valuable nectar source for pollinating insects.

Its naturally bushy, rounded habit makes it ideal for borders, gravel gardens, raised beds and patio containers. With its compact size, evergreen foliage and long flowering display, it provides reliable structure and seasonal interest throughout the year.

Why We Love It

• Distinctive flower heads are topped with striking purple bracts.
• Aromatic evergreen foliage provides year-round interest.
• Nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects.
• Compact habit is perfect for borders, gravel gardens and containers.
• Drought tolerant once established in well-drained soil.

Plant Details

Growing Guide

Position

Plant in a warm, sunny position where it receives plenty of direct sunlight. A sheltered location with good air circulation encourages the healthiest growth and the best flowering.

Watering

Water regularly during the first growing season while establishing. Once established, water only during prolonged dry spells. Plants grown in containers dry out more quickly and should be checked more frequently during warm weather. Avoid leaving the roots in wet soil, particularly during winter.

Soil

Grow in sharply drained soil. Lavender thrives in sandy, gravelly or free-draining ground and performs poorly in heavy clay or waterlogged conditions. For containers, use a free-draining compost with added grit to improve drainage.

Hardiness and Winter Care

Suitable for sheltered gardens throughout much of Ireland when planted in well-drained soil. Winter wet is often more damaging than cold, so excellent drainage is essential. Container-grown plants benefit from protection during prolonged periods of severe frost.

Routine Care

Trim lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy shape and encourage fresh growth. Avoid cutting back into old woody stems that have no green shoots, as these may not regrow well. Remove spent flower stems regularly to encourage continued flowering.

Perfect For

• Sunny borders and Mediterranean-style planting.
• Gravel gardens and dry banks.
• Patio pots and decorative containers.
• Wildlife and pollinator-friendly gardens.
• Fragrant planting beside paths and seating areas.

Good to Know

Unlike English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Lavandula stoechas prefers warmer, sheltered positions and is less tolerant of prolonged winter wet. Good drainage is the key to maintaining healthy plants in Irish gardens.

Product Information

• Botanical name: Lavandula stoechas 'Purple'
• Supplied in a 14cm nursery pot.
• Evergreen shrub.
• Pot size refers to the plant at the time of sale and not its eventual mature size.