Lavender

lavandula pinnata

Also known as: ["Lavender Pinnata","Lavender Tree"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Lavandula Category: Flowers

Overview

A fragrant, evergreen shrub with pinnate leaves and lavender flowers, native to the Canary Islands.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Lavandula
Botanical Name: Lavandula pinnata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor garden bed
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Fragrance Lovers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly prune throughout the growing season as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial shade.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in the brightest spot indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid north-facing windows indoors.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–80°F or 18–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Apply fertilizer after watering; use a low-nitrogen formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.
  6. Keep warm and bright.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), indirect light

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle

Quick Tips

Use non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and promote flowering; remove dead or leggy growth.

Tools

Sharp pruning shears, sterilized scissors

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead growth; shape the plant.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or browning edges in cold; stunted growth or leaf yellowing in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; susceptible to root rot in cold, wet soil.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure good drainage; use a heat mat if necessary.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; flowers may fade quickly.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging; use mulch to retain moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Lavandula pinnata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Lavandula pinnata can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, impacting the plant's ability to maintain turgor pressure and nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Lavandula pinnata may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Lavandula pinnata if the soil is poorly drained or excessively moist, leading to decay of root tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Lavandula pinnata is slightly toxic to cats if ingested. The essential oils can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and, in some cases, central nervous system depression. Cats are more sensitive to essential oils than dogs, so caution is advised.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy depression difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
flowers leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Keep lavender plants away from cats to avoid ingestion. If a cat ingests lavender, seek veterinary attention promptly.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Lavandula pinnata can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested. The essential oils in lavender can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset and, in rare cases, central nervous system depression. The effects are generally not severe but should be monitored.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
flowers leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Keep lavender plants out of reach of dogs to prevent ingestion. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian for guidance.
Humans
Non-toxic

Lavandula pinnata is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the essential oils present in the plant. The physiological impact is minimal and typically resolves without medical intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort mild dizziness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
flowers leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

While non-toxic, it is advisable to avoid consuming large amounts of lavender to prevent potential gastrointestinal upset.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Lavandula pinnata safe for pets?

A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How often should I water Lavandula pinnata?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.

Q: Does Lavandula pinnata attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Lamiaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","fragrance lovers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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