Contents
Description
Lavandula Stoechas Kew Red, commonly known as Spanish Lavender, is a fragrant evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is a native of the western Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated for its ornamental and medicinal properties. The plant has slender, upright stems that grow up to 2 feet tall and a spread of 1 to 2 feet. The leaves are narrow, gray-green, and slightly hairy, and the flowers are clusters of dark purple blooms topped with showy reddish-purple bracts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Lavandula |
Appearance
Lavandula Stoechas Kew Red is a compact and bushy plant with a woody stem and narrow, gray-green, and slightly hairy leaves. The flowers are small, dark purple blooms that are topped with showy reddish-purple bracts, which give the plant its unique appearance. The bracts are long and tapered, resembling rabbit ears, and they grow in dense clusters at the top of the stems. The plant blooms profusely in late spring and early summer, and its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Lavandula Stoechas Kew Red is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Spanish Lavender:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but don’t let it sit in standing water. Spanish Lavender prefers well-drained soil that is slightly dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to weak growth and fewer blooms.
- Soil: Spanish Lavender prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline. If your soil is too acidic, add some lime to raise the pH.
- Sunlight: Spanish Lavender thrives in full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lavandula Stoechas Kew Red is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spanish Lavender is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be attacked by spider mites, aphids, or whiteflies. To control these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly drained soil or over-watered.
Habitat
Lavandula Stoechas Kew Red is a native of the western Mediterranean region, where it grows in dry, rocky, and sunny habitats. It is commonly found in the scrublands, woodlands, and meadows of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. The plant has been widely cultivated and introduced to other regions of the world, including the United States, Australia, and South Africa.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lavandula Stoechas Kew Red deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Spanish Lavender is deer-resistant. The plant’s fragrant foliage and bitter taste make it unappealing to deer.
Q: Can Lavandula Stoechas Kew Red be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Spanish Lavender can be grown in containers as long as the pot has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: How often should I prune Lavandula Stoechas Kew Red?
A: Prune the plant once a year in early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems and to promote bushy growth.
Q: Can I use Lavandula Stoechas Kew Red for culinary purposes?
A: Yes, Spanish Lavender is edible and can be used to flavor desserts, teas, and other dishes. However, its flavor is stronger and more pungent than other types of lavender.
Related Plants
- Lavandula angustifolia
- Lavandula dentata
- Lavandula intermedia
- Lavandula latifolia
- Lavandula x intermedia ‘Grosso’
References
- “Lavandula Stoechas ‘Kew Red’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277038&isprofile=0.
- “Lavandula Stoechas Kew Red.” Plants Rescue, www.plantsrescue.com/lavandula-stoechas-kew-red/.
- “Spanish Lavender.” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/plants/spanish-lavender.html.
