Egyptian lavender, fernleaf lavender
lavandula multifida
Also known as: ["fernleaf lavender","Egyptian lavender"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the mint family, native to the Mediterranean region, known for its finely divided, fern-like leaves and aromatic flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Lavandula |
| Botanical Name: | Lavandula multifida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- 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":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering to remove spent blooms.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s height and width.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; provide shade during extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–8.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers warm, dry conditions.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; 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 bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems just above a leaf node or pair of leaves; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and promote flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune at the right time; remove dead or damaged growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure 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 or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaves; stunted growth; bud drop; wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; increases susceptibility to fungal diseases.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLavandula multifida is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLavandula multifida is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested or touched by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLavandula multifida, commonly known as Egyptian lavender, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is widely used in aromatherapy and as an ornamental plant without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lavandula multifida the same as regular lavender?
A: No, Lavandula multifida is distinct from common lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) due to its fern-like leaves and different growth habit.
Q: How often should I water Lavandula multifida?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Lavandula multifida attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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