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Description
Lavandula Pedunculata, commonly known as French Lavender or Butterfly Lavender, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and can grow up to 60 cm tall. The plant features fragrant, purple flowers that bloom in summer and attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees. It has grey-green leaves that are narrow and linear.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Lavandula |
Appearance
French Lavender is a small shrub with a bushy growth habit. It can grow up to 60 cm tall and 90 cm wide. The plant has grey-green leaves that are narrow and linear, measuring 2-4 cm in length. The leaves are covered with fine hairs and have a pleasant, aromatic scent. The fragrant, purple flowers of French Lavender bloom in summer and are arranged in spikes that can range from 4-10 cm in length. The flowers are tubular and have two lips, with the upper lip being smaller than the lower lip. They attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
French Lavender is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for your Lavandula Pedunculata:
Water: Water your French Lavender regularly, but be careful not to overwater it. It prefers well-draining soil, so make sure the soil is not waterlogged.
Fertilization: You can fertilize your French Lavender with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: French Lavender prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. If your soil is heavy, mix in some sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Sunlight: French Lavender needs full sun to thrive. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Hardiness Zones: French Lavender is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
French Lavender is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the pests and diseases that can affect your Lavandula Pedunculata:
Spider mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on the plant. You can control them by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
Fungal diseases: French Lavender can be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew. Make sure the plant has good drainage and air circulation to prevent these issues.
Habitat
French Lavender is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in rocky, dry habitats such as hillsides and cliffs. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can French Lavender be grown indoors?
A: Yes, French Lavender can be grown indoors, but it needs plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water my French Lavender?
A: Water your French Lavender regularly, but be careful not to overwater it. Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can French Lavender be used for cooking?
A: Yes, French Lavender can be used for cooking. Its flowers and leaves can be used to add a floral, herbaceous flavor to dishes.
Q: When is the best time to prune French Lavender?
A: Prune your French Lavender in early spring or after it has finished blooming in summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Lavandula Pedunculata:
- Lavandula Angustifolia
- Lavandula Stoechas
- Lavandula Dentata
- Lavandula Multifida
References
- “Lavandula Pedunculata – French Lavender.” Plant Care Today, 5 Mar. 2019, plantcaretoday.com/lavandula-pedunculata-french-lavender.
- “Lavandula Pedunculata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c390.
- “French Lavender Care: Tips On Growing French Lavender Plants.” Gardening Know How, 26 Feb. 2020, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/lavender/french-lavender-care.htm.
