Description

‘Munstead’ is a compact, early flowering English lavender cultivar named after Gertrude Jekyll’s garden at Munstead Wood. It is a semi-woody perennial with dark lavender-blue flowers in terminal spikes, and silver-green foliage.

English lavender can be difficult to grow. Well-drained soils are required, particularly in winter. (Great for planting on a slope or in a raised bed.)  Root rot commonly attacks plants grown in poorly drained soils. Prefers a light, sandy soil with somewhat low fertility. Appreciates a sheltered location and winter protection. Plant against a hot wall or along a cement/asphalt walk/driveway where the reflected heat helps keep the lavender hot and dry. Mulching with rocks instead of organic matter increases heat reflection, protects the crown from excessive moisture and reduces humidity.

Deadhead to promote a second flush of blooms. Prune to shape in spring after new leaves appear. Prune back to 8” in spring every 3 years to control plant size and to promote robust, new growth.

Effective as an edger or low hedge, and happy in gravel gardens. Excellent for potpourris and dried arrangements as flowers do not lose their color.

Attracts bees and butterflies.

Height: 1-1.5 ft.
Spread: 1-1.5 ft.
Family: Lamiaceae
Bloom time: June to August
Sun: full sun
Water: dry to medium
Deer and rabbit resistant

photo credit: Walters Gardens, Inc.