lavender plants perennial or annual Fernleaf Lavender – Native Gardeners

lavender plants perennial or annual Fernleaf Lavender – Native GardenersLavandula multifida Common Names: Fernleaf Lavender, French Lace Fernleaf Lavender is an incredibly fragrant and fast growing herbaceous plant that flowers throughout most of the year. It typically reaches about 18 inches in height, boasting lovely fern like gray green leaves on sturdy stems. This beauty is native to the sunny regions of the northwestern Mediterranean and the Canary Islands, and it acts like a perennial in the garden. The plant

Lavandula multifida 

Common Names: Fernleaf Lavender, French Lace

Fernleaf Lavender is an incredibly fragrant and fast-growing herbaceous plant that flowers throughout most of the year. It typically reaches about 18 inches in height, boasting lovely fern-like gray-green leaves on sturdy stems. This beauty is native to the sunny regions of the northwestern Mediterranean and the Canary Islands, and it acts like a perennial in the garden. 

The plant showcases striking blue-violet flowers that bloom in gorgeous, dense spikes—sometimes reaching up to 2 ½ inches long—on stems that can rise anywhere from 6 to 18 inches above the foliage, adding a pop of color to your garden.

In warmer winter climates, you can enjoy its blooming flair all year round, especially during summer when grown as an annual. However, it’s worth noting that if temperatures dip below 20°F, unprotected plants may have a tough time surviving the winter chill. For those in Zone 8, it's best to plant them in sheltered areas with some good winter mulch to help keep them cozy. To thrive, Fernleaf Lavender loves full sun and well-drained soils. Don’t forget that moist conditions can lead to root and stem rot, so ensuring proper drainage, especially in winter, is essential. To keep your plant looking its best and to encourage blooming, remember to deadhad any faded flowers regularly and do a light pruning in the spring once the new leaves start to emerge. What’s really special about this variety of lavender is its superior tolerance for summer heat and humidity compared to most others.

Height: 1'-2'
Spread: 1'-2'
Bloom: June-September
Light: Full Sun
Water: Low-Medium
Zone: 8-10
Origin: Northern Africa, Southern Europe