Spanish Lavender

Wed, 08/05/2009 - 2:07pm — Kathy Ormiston
lavandula_stoechas.jpg
Photo Credit: 
Vera Kark, PADG
Botanical Name: 
Lavandula stoechas 'Otto Quast'
Pronunciation: 
(lah-VAN-dew-lah STOY-kas)
Common Name: 
Spanish Lavender
Plant Type: 
Shrub
Mature Size: 
1 ft. to 2 ft. tall and 2 ft. to 3 ft. wide
Water Requirements: 
Low: water every 3 weeks until the root ball is wet
Sun/Shade Requirements: 
Full sun
Flower Color : 
Purple
Wildlife: 
Attracts beneficial insects and butterflies

Lavenders are a favorite plant for low-water gardens with their aromatic foliage and showy spikes of scented flowers. We have several different types of lavenders in our garden. 'Otto Quast', one of the cultivars we've had success with, is a UC Davis "All Star" plant.

Lavandula stoechas is an early bloomer and will repeat bloom if deadheaded and given supplemental water. Full sun and good drainage are essential for lavenders. Shear the plant after blooming to maintain a neat appearance and discourage the plant from becoming too large and woody.

One drawback is lavender is a short-lived shrub that needs to be replaced when it becomes leggy or woody. We are considering replacing our lavenders after about six years in the garden.