Perennials
Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia)

Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia)

Quintessentially English, lavenders have always adorned cottage gardens and there are now a lot of exciting good-looking cultivars to choose from. They are so versatile: not only are they scented but they look good as container blooms and as specimen plants. They can even form a handsome hedge. Shown here is 'Sawyers'.
Price: Expect to pay about £1.50 for a good plant.

The Knowledge

  • Plant Type: Perennial
  • Height: 43cm (17in)
  • Spread: 33cm (13in)
  • Situation: Open and sunny
  • Soil Type: Medium to rich
These evergreen plants range from fully hardy to half hardy. There are more than 150 cultivars and 25 species to choose from. A good place to plant lavenders is close to a path so that the aromas can be better appreciated. A low hedge of lavenders makes an appealing entrance to any Cottage Garden. In a small patio garden a specimen lavender in a container can be very rewarding, and the flowers can be gathered up and dried in the sun to make pot-pourri or lavender cushions.

Looking Good:
See the stunning lavenders during July and August at the Norfolk Lavender garden.

Best With:
Colour-matching dwarf blue Hydrangea (Hydrangea) or contrasting white or pink astilbes. For more ideas and inspiration, see Cottage Garden and Herb Garden.
 
 

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