Few plants capture the essence of summer quite like French lavender. With its silvery foliage, elegant long stems, and eye-catching purple flowers crowned by feathery bracts, this Mediterranean beauty brings both visual delight and intoxicating fragrance to any garden.
Unlike its more compact cousin, English lavender, French lavender (Lavandula stoechas) flowers for longer – often from late spring right through to the end of summer. Its unique “bunny ear” petals at the top of each flower spike make it an instant focal point in borders, pots, and gravel gardens.
A Brief History
Did you know? French lavender has been valued since Roman times. While the Romans introduced lavender to Britain, it was prized throughout the Mediterranean for its cleansing and healing properties. The name “lavender” comes from the Latin lavare, meaning “to wash” – a nod to its ancient use in bathhouses and linen closets.
Why We Love French Lavender:
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Fragrant and long-flowering – French lavender produces blooms for months and fills the air with a calming, uplifting scent.
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A magnet for pollinators – Bees and butterflies absolutely adore it, making it a perfect addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.
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Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance – Once established, it thrives in full sun with very little fuss.
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Versatile in design – From modern Mediterranean schemes to traditional cottage gardens, French lavender fits in beautifully.
It’s not just about looks either – a little pruning after the first flush of flowers encourages a second round of blooms, and the aromatic foliage is just as pleasing as the flowers themselves.
If this glorious plant has you smitten – you can create a whole lavender feature – with our incredible offer of UK-grown French lavender – six plants for just £10.99.
And if you’re more of a traditionalist, we also have the same offer in classic English lavender too.
Whether you’re filling pots on a sunny patio, lining a pathway, or building a dedicated lavender bed, now is the perfect time to plant and enjoy the many benefits of this garden favourite. Come and explore our selection at Radway Bridge Garden Centre in Hereford – your garden (and the bees) will thank you.
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