Types of Lavender Plants:

Lavender Plant Types:

English Lavender or True Lavender:

• This is also known as English/True Lavender. It is the most widely cultivated species in the world for its aromatic flowers and essential oil. The fragrant purple flowers with narrow leaves add visual vibrance to landscapes and enhance the sensory experience of relaxation.  In the lavender season, Philadelphia offers visitors a trip to an English lavender farm with many other types of lavenders and relax with yoga to enjoy the farm tour with different activities.  

• English Lavender ‘Sarah’:

English Lavender ‘Sarah’ (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Sarah’) is a popular cultivar known for its compact size and highly fragrant flowers. Here are some details about this lovely plant:

Characteristics:

• Height: Typically grows up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall.
• Spread: About 18 inches (45 cm) wide.
• Foliage: Narrow, gray-green leaves.
• Flowers: Deep violet-blue flowers that bloom in mid to late summer.
• Fragrance: Very aromatic, often used in sachets, perfumes, and essential oils.

Uses:

• Gardens: Perfect for borders, rock gardens, and herb gardens
• Containers: Thrives in container gardening setups
• Culinary: Edible flowers enhance desserts and teas with a subtle floral flavor
• Aromatherapy: Known for its calming fragrance in sachets, oils, and potpourri
• Attracts: Bees and butterflies
• Deer-Resistant: Yes
• Fragrance: Highly aromatic

• English Lavender ‘Jean Davis’:

English Lavender ‘Jean Davis’ (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Jean Davis’) is a popular variety of lavender known for its unique pink flowers. Here are some details about this plant:

Characteristics:

• Height: 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm)
• Spread: 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm)
• Bloom Time: Early to mid-summer
• Flower Color: Pale pink
• Foliage: Gray-green, aromatic
• Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 5 to 9
• Native Area: Mediterranean

Uses:

• Gardens: Ideal for borders, rock gardens, and herb gardens
• Containers: Suitable for container gardening
• Culinary: Flowers can be used in cooking, especially in desserts and teas
• Aromatherapy: Commonly used for its soothing fragrance in sachets, oils, and potpourri
• Attracts: Bees and butterflies
• Deer-Resistant: Yes
• Fragrance: Highly aromatic

• English Lavender ‘Hidcote Giant’:

‘Hidcote Giant’ is a variety of English lavender known for its tall stature and striking appearance. It is a hardy, evergreen shrub that produces long stems of highly fragrant, deep purple flowers.

Characteristics:

• Height: Typically grows to about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm).
• Spread: About 2-3 feet (60-90 cm).
• Flowers: Deep purple, highly aromatic, blooming from mid to late summer.
• Foliage: Narrow, silvery-green leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 5-9.
• Sun Exposure: Full sun.
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, slightly alkaline to neutral soil.
• Uses: Ideal for borders, hedging, container planting, and as a culinary herb. Also popular in dried flower arrangements and potpourri.

Uses:

• Aromatic: Highly fragrant, attracting bees and butterflies, beneficial for pollination.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established.
• Versatile: Can be used in various garden settings, including formal and informal designs. Regular pruning and deadheading of spent blooms can help keep the plant looking tidy and encourage a more prolific bloom the following year.

• English Lavender ‘Thumbelina Leigh’:

Thumbelina Leigh’ is a compact variety of English Lavender known for its dwarf size and abundant fragrant blooms. This variety is perfect for small gardens, containers, and edging due to its manageable size and dense growth habit.

Characteristics:

• Height: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
• Spread: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
• Flower Color: Deep violet-blue
• Foliage: Grey-green, aromatic
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer, with a possible repeat bloom in late summer
• Growth Habit: Dense, mounding

Uses:

• Landscape: Borders, rock gardens, herb gardens, edging, and containers
• Culinary: Edible flowers used in culinary dishes and teas
• Aromatic: Used in sachets, potpourri, and essential oils
• Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. This variety of lavender is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a compact, fragrant, and visually appealing plant that requires minimal care.

• White Lavender ‘Alba’:

Spanish Lavender:

The Spanish Lavender is known for its distinctive flowers with large showy bracts on top of the flower spikes.Its growth habit is more effective than others species.It appears in purple, pink and white flowers shades. 

• Lavandula stoechas ‘Curly Top:

• Spanish Lavender ‘Ballerina’:

• Spanish Lavender ‘La Diva Big Night’:

Characteristics:

• Flower Characteristics: Produces wave after wave of massive, inky blackberry-colored flowers with large bract petals that stand out above the plant.
• Hybrid Qualities: It’s a cross between Spanish (Lavandula stoechas) and English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), resulting in robust foliage that withstands summer conditions well.
• Hardiness: Hardy up to zone 6, making it suitable for a wider range of climates compared to typical Spanish lavenders. Part of the La Diva Series, known for heavy blooming, hardiness, landscape performance, outstanding fragrance, and heat and humidity tolerance.
• Fragrance: Offers outstanding fragrance, typical of lavenders, perfuming the air around it.

Uses:

• Garden: Ideal as a pot plant, mass planted in gardens, or as a striking specimen. Its size makes it suitable for edging gardens and walkways.
• Cut Flowers: Both fresh and dried flowers are attractive and aromatic, adding charm to arrangements.

This variety seems to be highly recommended for gardeners looking for a lavender that combines the best qualities of both Spanish and English types, offering robust growth, prolific blooms, and easy maintenance. It would make an excellent addition to gardens or containers where its unique flowers and fragrance can be appreciated.

• Spanish Lavender ‘Anouk’:

‘Spanish Lavender ‘Anouk” is a popular cultivar known for its compact size and abundant, highly aromatic blooms. It features the typical petal-like bracts atop slender spikes, characteristic of Spanish Lavender, but with unique coloring that sets it apart.

Characteristics:

• Height: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
• Spread: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
• Flower Color: Violet-purple with bright pink bracts
• Foliage: Grey-green, aromatic
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer, with intermittent blooming throughout the season
• Growth Habit: Compact, bushy

Uses:

• Landscape: Borders, rock gardens, containers, and as a low hedge or edging plant
• Aromatic: Flowers used in sachets, potpourri, and essential oils
• Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Spanish Lavender ‘Anouk’ is prized for its compact size, vibrant blooms, and aromatic foliage, making it an excellent choice for both formal and informal garden settings.

• Spanish Lavender ‘Kew Red’:

‘Spanish Lavender ‘Kew Red’ is a cultivar known for its vibrant red-purple flowers and distinctive petal-like bracts that resemble rabbit ears. This variety is a favorite among gardeners for its striking color and aromatic foliage.

Characteristics:

• Height: 18-24 inches (45-60 cm)
• Spread: 18-24 inches (45-60 cm)
• Flower Color: Deep red-purple, with colorful bracts in shades of red, purple, or white
• Foliage: Grey-green, highly aromatic
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer, with potential for repeat blooming
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy

Uses:

• Landscape: Borders, rock gardens, containers, and as a focal point in ornamental gardens
• Aromatic: Used in sachets, potpourri, and essential oils
• Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Spanish Lavender ‘Kew Red’ is a stunning addition to gardens seeking vibrant color and Mediterranean charm. Its unique flowers and robust growth make it a standout choice for both ornamental and aromatic purposes.

• Spanish Lavender ‘Fathead’:

‘Fathead’ is a specific cultivar of Spanish Lavender known for its large, dense flower heads and robust growth habit. It shares many characteristics with typical Spanish Lavender but is distinguished by its exceptionally large blooms and vigorous growth.

Characteristics:

• Height: 24-30 inches (60-75 cm)
• Spread: 18-24 inches (45-60 cm)
• Flower Color: Deep purple to violet, with large, prominent petal-like bracts
• Foliage: Grey-green, highly aromatic
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer, with potential for sporadic blooming throughout the season
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy

Uses:

• Landscape: Borders, rock gardens, containers, and as a focal point due to its large blooms
• Aromatic: Suitable for sachets, potpourri, and essential oils
• Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Spanish Lavender ‘Fathead’ is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a vigorous, visually striking lavender variety that thrives in sunny, well-drained locations. Its large blooms and aromatic foliage make it a standout in gardens and landscapes.

• Spanish Lavender ‘Strawberry Ruffles’:

‘Strawberry Ruffles’ is a cultivar of Spanish Lavender, known for its unique and attractive features. It is named for its distinctively shaped flower heads and the coloration of its petals.

Characteristics:

• Height: Typically grows 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall
• Spread: Similar spread to height, forming a compact bushy plant
• Flower Color: Rich purple flowers with prominent bracts that resemble “ruffles”
• Foliage: Grey-green, aromatic
• Bloom Time: Spring to summer, with intermittent blooms possible through the season
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy

Uses:

• Landscape: Ideal for borders, rock gardens, containers, and as a colorful accent plant
• Aromatic: Leaves and flowers are highly aromatic, suitable for potpourri, sachets, and essential oils
• Wildlife: Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies

‘Strawberry Ruffles’ Spanish Lavender is prized for its ornamental value, aromatic foliage, and attractive blooms, making it a popular choice among gardeners seeking a unique and visually appealing addition to their landscape.

• Fernleaf Lavender:

Fernleaf Lavender, also known as Egyptian Lavender, is characterized by its finely cut, fern-like foliage and delicate, deeply divided leaves. This type of lavender is valued for its unique appearance and aromatic qualities.

Characteristics:

• Height: 24-36 inches (60-90 cm)
• Spread: 18-24 inches (45-60 cm)
• Foliage: Finely dissected, fern-like leaves, grey-green
• Flower Color: Violet-blue to purple
• Bloom Time: Late spring to summer
• Growth Habit: Upright, open

Uses:

• Landscape: Borders, rock gardens, containers, and as a focal point in herb gardens
• Aromatic: Leaves are highly aromatic and can be used in potpourri, sachets, and essential oils
• Culinary: Flowers can be used sparingly in culinary dishes and teas
• Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Fernleaf Lavender is a distinctive choice for gardeners seeking a lavender variety with finely textured foliage and a graceful appearance. Its aromatic leaves and lovely flowers make it a versatile addition to gardens, both for ornamental and practical purposes.

Portuguese Lavender:

“Portuguese Lavender” typically refers to Lavandula luisieri, a species native to Portugal and parts of southwestern Spain. It is sometimes also referred to as Luisieri Lavender or Spanish Lavender. Native to Portugal and southwestern Spain (hence the name “Portuguese Lavender”). These plants have narrow, linear leaves that are gray-green in color. The flowers are held on short spikes and are typically a shade of purple, sometimes with pinkish tones. Similar to other lavender species, Portuguese Lavender thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is tolerant of drought once established but benefits from occasional watering during dry periods.

• Luisier’s Lavender:

Lavandula luisieri is a less common variety compared to English and Spanish Lavenders but is equally notable for its unique characteristics. It is native to Portugal and features slightly different growth habits and flower structures compared to its more widely recognized relatives.

Characteristics:

• Height: Typically grows 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall
• Spread: 12-24 inches (30-60 cm)
• Flower Color: Lavender to violet-blue, with dense spikes of small, tubular flowers
• Foliage: Grey-green, aromatic
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy

Uses:

• Landscape: Borders, rock gardens, containers, and as a focal point in Mediterranean-style gardens
• Aromatic: Flowers are used in potpourri, sachets, and for essential oils
• Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Popular: It is grown for its ornamental value in gardens and landscapes, where its compact growth habit and aromatic flowers make it a popular choice. It can also be used in herbal medicine and for its essential oil, though to a lesser extent compared to other lavender species like Lavandula angustifolia.

Portuguese Lavender adds a unique Mediterranean charm to gardens, with its delicate flowers and aromatic foliage. It thrives in sunny, dry conditions and is an excellent choice for landscapes that mimic its native habitat.

• Lavandula latifolia: 

Lavandula latifolia, with broader leaves make it known as the spike lavender. It is the mostly used lavender plant in medicinal applications. This plant have deeper purple-blue color compared to other lavender species with a strong camphor scent. 

Characteristics:

• Height: Typically grows 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall
• Spread: 2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
• Flower Color: Pale purple to lavender, with long, slender spikes
• Foliage: Grey-green, broader leaves compared to other lavenders
• Bloom Time: Late spring to summer
• Growth Habit: Upright, open, slightly bushy

Uses:

• Landscape: Ideal for wildflower gardens, Mediterranean gardens, and as a naturalizing plant
• Aromatic: Leaves and flowers are aromatic, used in sachets, potpourri, and essential oils
• Culinary: Leaves can be used sparingly in cooking, similar to other lavenders
• Medicinal: Used in traditional herbal medicine for its soothing properties

Lavandula latifolia is a robust and aromatic lavender species that thrives in hot, dry climates. Its broader leaves and longer spikes make it a distinctive addition to gardens and landscapes seeking a Mediterranean or wildflower aesthetic.

French Lavender:

• ‘Grosso’:

‘Grosso’ is one of the most widely cultivated cultivars of Lavandula x intermedia. It is known for its robust growth, long flower spikes, and high oil content. ‘Grosso’ is primarily grown for its essential oil, which is used in perfumery and aromatherapy. French Lavender ‘Grosso’ is a hybrid lavender, a cross between English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Spike Lavender (Lavandula latifolia). It is renowned for its large, fragrant flower spikes and robust growth habit, making it a favorite for both ornamental and commercial purposes.

Characteristics:

• Height: 24-36 inches (60-90 cm)
• Spread: 24-36 inches (60-90 cm)
• Flower Color: Deep purple to violet-blue
• Foliage: Grey-green, highly aromatic
• Bloom Time: Mid to late summer; often blooms later than other lavenders
• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy

Uses:

• Landscape: Borders, hedges, containers, and as a focal point in gardens
• Commercial: Essential oil production; ‘Grosso’ is a primary cultivar for lavender oil extraction
• Aromatic: Used in sachets, potpourri, and culinary applications (though less common than English lavender)

French Lavender ‘Grosso’ is prized for its intense fragrance, larger flower spikes, and adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions. It’s an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a robust and aromatic lavender to their landscape or for those interested in lavender oil production.

• ‘Provence’:

Another popular cultivar of Lavandula x intermedia, ‘Provence’ has pale purple flowers and a sweet fragrance. It is favored for its ornamental value in gardens and its oil production. French Lavender ‘Provence’ is a hybrid lavender variety, often referred to as Lavandin, which is a cross between English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Spike Lavender (Lavandula latifolia). It is known for its long, slender spikes of fragrant flowers and robust growth habit.

• ‘Goodwin Creek Grey’

  : This is a cultivar of Lavandula stoechas known for its silvery-gray foliage and vibrant purple flowers. It has a compact growth habit and is valued for its ornamental appeal and aromatic foliage. ‘Goodwin Creek Grey’ is a cultivar of French Lavender known for its distinctive grey-green foliage and aromatic flowers. It is a compact, bushy plant that is highly valued for its ornamental qualities and aromatic properties.

Characteristics:

• Height: 18-24 inches (45-60 cm)
• Spread: 24-36 inches (60-90 cm)
• Flower Color: Lavender-blue
• Foliage: Grey-green, toothed edges
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer, with sporadic blooming throughout the year in mild climates
• Growth Habit: Compact, bushy

Uses:

• Landscape: Borders, rock gardens, containers, and as a focal point in Mediterranean or drought-tolerant gardens
• Aromatic: Flowers and foliage used in sachets, potpourri, and essential oils
• Culinary: Flowers can be used sparingly in culinary dishes and teas
• Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

‘Goodwin Creek Grey’ is prized for its silvery foliage and long-lasting blooms, making it a versatile and attractive addition to gardens with a Mediterranean or drought-tolerant theme.

• ‘Kew Red’:

Another cultivar of Lavandula stoechas, ‘Kew Red’ has deep purple flowers topped with bright red bracts, giving it a striking appearance. French Lavender ‘Kew Red’ is a unique variety known for its vibrant red-purple flowers and aromatic foliage. Here are some details about this specific type: ‘Kew Red’ is a cultivar of French Lavender, distinguished by its deep red-purple flower spikes topped with petal-like bracts. The flowers are highly fragrant, adding both visual interest and aromatic appeal to garden landscapes.

• ‘Hidcote’:

Although primarily associated with English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), ‘Hidcote’ is sometimes grouped with French lavender due to its similar growth habits and use in landscaping. French Lavender ‘Hidcote’ is a popular variety known for its compact size and richly colored flowers. It is a true lavender with narrow, aromatic foliage and dense spikes of deep purple flowers that bloom profusely during the summer months.

• ‘Anouk’:

A compact cultivar of Lavandula stoechas, ‘Anouk’ features dark purple flowers and is prized for its dwarf size and prolific blooming. French Lavender ‘Anouk’ is a popular cultivar known for its unique and attractive features. Here’s more information about it: ‘Anouk’ is a compact and bushy variety of French Lavender, valued for its aromatic foliage and showy flowers. It is characterized by its vibrant purple flowers and distinctive rabbit ear-shaped bracts atop slender stems.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
• Spread: 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
• Flower Color: Purple, with prominent pinkish-purple bracts
• Foliage: Grey-green, aromatic
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer, with potential for sporadic blooms through the season
• Growth Habit: Compact, mounding

Uses:

• Landscape: Borders, rock gardens, containers, and as a low hedge or edging plant
• Aromatic: Leaves and flowers are used in potpourri, sachets, and essential oils
• Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

French Lavender ‘Anouk’ is prized for its compact size, aromatic foliage, and vibrant flowers, making it an excellent choice for both garden beds and containers, especially in regions with mild winters.

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