Spike lavender
lavandula latifolia
Also known as: ["Portuguese lavender","Broad-leaved lavender"]
Overview
A hardy, aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean region, known for its narrow leaves and tall spikes of purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Lavandula |
| Botanical Name: | Lavandula latifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, herb gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering in late spring or early summer.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove one-third of the plant’s height and width.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching by providing shade during peak summer heat; place in a location with unobstructed sun exposure for optimal growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even sun exposure; use reflective surfaces to enhance light; avoid drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 6.7–7.4).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Ideal range: 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers cool winters and warm summers.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; use a low-nitrogen formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from non-flowering shoots.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use non-flowering stems for best results; maintain consistent humidity; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or woody growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and promote flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead wood; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the root zone; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root rot if soil remains wet; can lead to dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; ensure good drainage; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or premature bud drop due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply in early spring and midsummer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are more sensitive to essential oils, including those from Lavandula latifolia, due to their limited ability to metabolize certain compounds. Ingestion can lead to mild to moderate toxicity, affecting the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe essential oil of Lavandula latifolia can be mildly toxic to dogs if ingested. The compounds linalool and linalyl acetate may cause gastrointestinal irritation and mild central nervous system effects in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicLavandula latifolia, commonly known as spike lavender, contains linalool and linalyl acetate in its essential oil, which can cause mild toxicity if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological effects are generally limited to gastrointestinal and central nervous system disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Spike lavender safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Spike lavender?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Can I use Spike lavender in cooking?
A: Yes, its leaves and flowers can be used for culinary purposes, though it has a stronger flavor than common lavender.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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