Spanish Lavender: A Heat-Tolerant Herb for Your Garden
Introduction
When you think of lavender, you probably think of English and French lavender. But did you know that there’s also a Spanish lavender? Spanish lavender is a beautiful and fragrant herb that’s perfect for hot climates. It’s easy to grow and care for, and it attracts pollinators to your garden.
About Spanish Lavender
Spanish lavender (Lavendula stoechas) is one of about 40 varieties of lavender. It’s native to the hot, dry climate of the Mediterranean region, so it can tolerate heat and drought better than other lavender varieties. Spanish lavender grows in small shrubs that make great low hedges or bed borders. It has silvery green leaves and upright bracts that resemble rabbit ears. The flowers of Spanish lavender can be purple or pink, depending on the cultivar.
Benefits of Spanish Lavender
Spanish lavender has a number of benefits over other lavender varieties, including:
- Heat tolerance: Spanish lavender can tolerate heat and drought better than other lavender varieties. This makes it a good choice for gardeners in hot climates.
- Easy to grow: Spanish lavender is easy to grow and care for. It doesn’t require any special care or attention.
- Attracts pollinators: Spanish lavender attracts pollinators to your garden, which can help improve pollination and fruit set.
Growing Spanish Lavender
Spanish lavender is easy to grow from seed or cuttings. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Water your Spanish lavender regularly, but don’t overwater it. Spanish lavender is a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t require much care.
Different Types of Spanish Lavender
There are a number of different cultivars of Spanish lavender, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular cultivars include:
- Ann’s Purple: This cultivar is larger than others, growing about 30 inches tall. It has dark purple flowers.
- Purple Ribbon: This cultivar produces dark purple flowers and is a little bit cold hardier than other cultivars.
- Kew Red: This cultivar is one of the few to produce pink flowers, in a dark raspberry shade.
- Winter Bees: This cultivar starts blooming before other cultivars, beginning in late winter in warm climates.
- Lutsko’s Dwarf: This dwarf cultivar grows out to about 12 inches tall and makes a good option for container growing.
Using Spanish Lavender
Spanish lavender can be used in a variety of ways, including:
- Fresh: Spanish lavender can be used fresh in bouquets, arrangements, and potpourris.
- Dried: Spanish lavender can be dried and used in sachets, pillows, and other crafts.
- Culinary: Spanish lavender can be used in cooking and baking. It has a delicate flavor that pairs well with desserts, teas, and other dishes.
Conclusion
Spanish lavender is a beautiful and fragrant herb that’s perfect for hot climates. It’s easy to grow and care for, and it attracts pollinators to your garden. With its many benefits, Spanish lavender is a great choice for any gardener.
