Spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia)
Care, watering, light and tips for Spike lavender on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Spike lavender
Lavandula latifolia, commonly known as Spike Lavender or Broad-leaved Lavender, is a perennial aromatic plant from the Lamiaceae family, native to the Mediterranean basin. It stands out for its wider leaves and more camphoraceous scent than other lavenders, forming dense clumps of blue-violet flowers in spikes. It is ideal for Mediterranean gardens, rockeries, and borders, providing beauty and an intense fragrance.
Native range
Western Mediterranean region (mainly Spain and southern France).
Care tips
It requires full sun for abundant flowering and well-drained soil, preferably sandy or stony, as it does not tolerate waterlogging. Watering should be moderate, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, and very scarce once established. A common mistake is overwatering or heavy soil, which can lead to root rot. Prune it lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.
How to save a dying Spike lavender
- Warning signs
- Wilted leaves, soft or dry stems, blackened base.
- First aid
- Remove spent flowers and damaged stems. Check drainage and soil moisture.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or constant shade (needs sun).
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted and it gets sun and good drainage.