Canary Islands Lavender
lavandula canariensis
Also known as: ["Canary lavender","Lavender of the Canaries"]
Overview
A fragrant, evergreen shrub native to the Canary Islands, known for its aromatic foliage and spikes of lavender flowers.
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 canariensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, herb garden, or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering in late spring or early summer.
- 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 intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if necessary.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure soil dries out between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand or perlite if needed.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers mild temperatures year-round.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken from non-flowering stems.
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, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
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; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems just above a leaf node or pair of leaves; shape the plant evenly.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove old or dead wood.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
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, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure good drainage; protect from drafts and frost.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize 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 canariensis is not considered toxic to cats. However, ingestion in large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLavandula canariensis is not considered toxic to dogs. However, ingestion in large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLavandula canariensis is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is widely used in aromatherapy and as a culinary herb in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lavandula canariensis safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does this lavender attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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