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Physical description: English lavender has a compact and rounded growth form.
The leaves are evergreen, entire, opposite, and reach 2 in. long.
Flowering occurs in summer, and the flowers are ¼--½
in. long, form interrupted spikes, and have an attractive fragrance.
The fruit is non-ornamental. The leaves and the flowers are aromatic
and have many uses. For the variety "Hidcote Superior",
the habit can reach 3 ft tall, the foliage is silver-gray, and
the flowers are deep violet-blue-colored.
Optimal growing conditions: English lavender is soil and drought tolerant but performs
best in well-drained soil under full sun. Drainage is the most
important factor. Another thing useful to know: Growth can be
slow and soft in heavy soils, and a hardiness problem may appear.
In good conditions, the growth rate is moderate. Winter hardiness:
Zones 5-9.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases: Leaf spot and root rot are usual diseases for
English
lavender. Concerning pests, aphids, mites, four-lined plant bug,
caterpillars, and northern root knot nematodes may do some damage,
but no one pest is really problematic.
Use:
English
lavender is certainly among the most popular garden plants, and
can be used in many situations, especially as a groundcover,
in rock gardens, or as a specimen in herb gardens. Its fragrance
is greatly appreciated by gardeners.
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