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Description
Lavandula Angustifolia Thumbelina Leigh, commonly known as English lavender, is a small perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated for its fragrant flowers and essential oils. It is a popular choice among gardeners for its beauty, low-maintenance, and versatility.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Lamiids |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Lavandula |
Appearance
Lavandula Angustifolia Thumbelina Leigh is a small plant that grows up to 30 cm tall and 45 cm wide. It has narrow, silver-green leaves that are about 2.5 cm long and 4 mm wide. The plant produces spikes of fragrant flowers that are about 5 cm long and come in shades of purple, pink, and white. The flowers bloom in the summer and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Lavandula Angustifolia Thumbelina Leigh is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline. If the soil is too acidic, add lime to raise the pH level.
- Sunlight: The plant needs full sun to thrive. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Lavandula Angustifolia Thumbelina Leigh is hardy in zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lavandula Angustifolia Thumbelina Leigh is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to some common problems:
- Aphids: These small insects may feed on the plant’s sap and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests may cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown and develop webs. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Fungal diseases: These may cause leaf spots, stem rot, or powdery mildew. Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation to prevent them.
Habitat
Lavandula Angustifolia Thumbelina Leigh is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers warm, dry climates. It is commonly found in rocky, well-drained soils in the Mediterranean region, but it can also grow in other regions as long as the soil and climate are suitable.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lavandula Angustifolia Thumbelina Leigh be grown indoors?
A: It is not recommended to grow this plant indoors because it needs full sun to thrive.
Q: How often should I prune the plant?
A: Prune the plant once a year after the blooming season to promote bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy.
Q: Can I propagate the plant from cuttings?
A: Yes, Lavandula Angustifolia Thumbelina Leigh can be propagated from softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Q: Can I use the flowers for culinary purposes?
A: Yes, the flowers are edible and are commonly used in cooking and baking.
Related Plants
- Lavandula Angustifolia Hidcote
- Lavandula Angustifolia Munstead
- Lavandula Stoechas
- Lavandula Dentata
References
- “Lavandula angustifolia Thumbelina Leigh.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f475
- “Lavandula angustifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/2664/Lavandula-angustifolia/Details
- “Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender).” Gardenia. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/lavandula-angustifolia-english-lavender
