Fernleaf Lavender

Plant Type: perennial
Plant Height: 18-24 inches
Spread: 18-24 inches
Flower Color: deep blue to violet
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Description:

Fernleaf Lavender, scientifically known as Lavandula multifida, is an unusual and highly ornamental lavender species, notable for its distinctive, deeply dissected, fern-like, silver-green foliage. This Mediterranean native stands out not only for its aromatic leaves but also for its striking deep blue to violet flowers, which bloom atop slender, branched stems. The plant's unique appearance and fragrant properties make it a favorite among gardeners and landscape designers looking to add texture, color, and scent to their outdoor spaces.

Growing to about 18 to 24 inches in both height and spread, Fernleaf Lavender forms a compact, bushy mound that is as wide as it is tall. Its fern-like foliage provides an attractive textural contrast to the more traditional forms of lavender, with the added benefit of a strong, sweet fragrance. The flowers, which appear from late spring through summer, are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden.

Adapted to full sun, Lavandula multifida thrives in well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil, and is notably drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for xeriscapes, rock gardens, and Mediterranean-themed landscapes. It prefers a slightly alkaline soil pH and benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells, especially in hotter climates.

In landscaping, Fernleaf Lavender is often used in herb gardens, as a border plant, in mass plantings for a dramatic effect, or in containers where its aromatic foliage and striking flowers can be enjoyed up close. Its unique foliage and vibrant flowers make it a standout addition to any garden, offering visual interest and a delightful fragrance.

Overall, Fernleaf Lavender is a low-maintenance and highly decorative plant, ideal for adding fragrance, color, and texture to sunny garden areas. Its distinctive foliage, ease of care, and adaptability to a range of growing conditions make it a favored choice for gardeners looking to create visually engaging and sensory-rich landscapes.