English Lavender is a beloved perennial herb known for its fragrant purple flower spikes, silver-green foliage, and versatility in the garden, home, and kitchen. Cold-hardy, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance, it’s ideal for borders, containers, pollinator gardens, and dried floral use.

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Lavandula angustifolia

• Common names: English Lavender, True Lavender, Common Lavender

• Plant type: Woody perennial herb

• Days to maturity: 90–120 days from transplant

• Height: 18–30 inches

• Sun exposure: Full sun

• Hardiness zones: USDA 5–9

• Spacing: 12–18 inches apart

When to Plant

• Indoors: Start seeds 8–10 weeks before last frost.

• Outdoors: Transplant after all danger of frost has passed.

• Fall planting: In mild climates (zones 7+), plant in early fall for spring establishment.

• Germination time: 14–30 days at 65–70°F (18–21°C); requires patience

How to Plant

1. Soil preparation: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil; alkaline to neutral pH preferred.

2. Sowing depth: Surface-sow or lightly cover; light aids germination.

3. Transplanting: After hardening off, space plants 12–18 inches apart.

4. Watering: Water deeply but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings.

Growing Tips

• Avoid wet or clay-heavy soils to prevent root rot.

• Prune annually after flowering to maintain shape and promote bushiness.

• Mulch with gravel or sand, not organic mulch, to improve drainage.

• Bees and butterflies love lavender — perfect for pollinator gardens.

Harvesting & Use

• Best time to harvest: When about half the flower buds are open.

• For drying: Cut stems early in the morning and hang in small bunches upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated space.

• Culinary uses: Flowers and leaves are edible; use in teas, baked goods, infused sugars, or savory dishes.

• Aromatherapy: Use dried buds or essential oil for calming effects in sachets, bath salts, or potpourri.

Companion Plants

Great with rosemary, thyme, echinacea, yarrow, ornamental grasses, and other drought-tolerant Mediterranean herbs. Avoid planting near water-loving vegetables.

Why Grow English Lavender?

English Lavender brings year-round beauty, fragrance, and function to your garden. It’s ideal for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly perennial that’s also useful in crafts, aromatherapy, and the kitchen.