English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Care, watering, light and tips for English 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 English lavender
Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as Lavender, is an aromatic perennial shrub highly valued for its spikes of purple flowers and relaxing fragrance. Its narrow, silvery leaves complement the blooms, creating a beautiful contrast. It is ideal for garden borders, rockeries, or pots, attracting pollinators and adding a Mediterranean touch.
Native range
Western Mediterranean region
Care tips
It requires full sun (at least 6 hours daily) for abundant flowering and optimal development. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, as it is very sensitive to excess moisture. It prefers well-drained, sandy or stony soils, with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying English lavender
- Warning signs
- Gray leaves, woody stems without new growth, sparse/weak flowers. General wilting.
- First aid
- Drastic pruning (1/3 of plant), ensure drainage, place in full sun. Water only when soil is dry.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and lack of sun. Lavender hates soggy soil and shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't rotted and there's still green at the base. Act quickly!