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Description
Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie is a compact and hardy evergreen shrub that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is a dwarf variety of English lavender that produces small, fragrant flowers from late spring to early summer. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly used for ornamental and medicinal purposes. Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie is also known as Dwarf Blue English Lavender.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Lamiales |
Family | Lamiaceae |
Genus | Lavandula |
Appearance
Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie grows up to 30 cm tall and 45 cm wide. It has narrow, gray-green leaves that are about 2.5 cm long. The flowers are small and blue-purple in color, and they grow in tight clusters on spikes that rise above the foliage. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and may rebloom in the fall if the spent flowers are removed.
Care Guide
Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie is a low-maintenance plant that requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week in the absence of rain. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced flower production.
- Soil: Plant Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. Amend the soil with compost or sand if necessary to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Provide the plant with full sun exposure for at least 6 hours a day. Avoid planting it in areas with excessive shade or moisture.
- Hardiness Zones: Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Fungal Diseases: The plant may develop root rot, powdery mildew, or leaf spot if grown in poorly drained or humid conditions.
- Insect Pests: The plant may attract aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
Habitat
Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie is native to the Mediterranean region and prefers dry, rocky, and well-drained soil. It is commonly grown in gardens, borders, and containers in temperate and subtropical regions around the world. The plant is also used for aromatherapy, perfumes, cosmetics, and culinary purposes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie is deer-resistant due to its strong fragrance and bitter taste.
Q: How often should I prune Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie?
A: Prune the plant lightly after the first bloom to encourage new growth and prevent woody stems. Avoid cutting into the old wood, as this can reduce the plant’s lifespan.
Q: Can I propagate Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie from cuttings?
A: Yes, Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide the plant with partial shade until it roots.
Q: Can I grow Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie indoors?
A: It is possible to grow Lavandula Angustifolia Little Lottie indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights. Provide the plant with well-draining soil, regular watering, and occasional fertilization. However, the plant may not bloom as profusely indoors as it does outdoors.
Related Plants
- Lavandula Angustifolia ‘Munstead’
- Lavandula Angustifolia ‘Hidcote’
- Lavandula Angustifolia ‘Ellagance Snow’
- Lavandula Angustifolia ‘Blue Cushion’
References
- “Lavandula angustifolia ‘Little Lottie’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277389.
- “Lavandula angustifolia ‘Little Lottie’ Dwarf Blue English Lavender.” North Carolina State University Extension. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lavandula-angustifolia-little-lottie/.
- Wagner, David L., and Kelly A. Norris. The Plant Lover’s Guide to Salvias. Portland, OR: Timber Press, 2014.