Lavender 'Buena Vista'

‘Buena Vista’ is an open, fragrant English lavender with dark violet-blue flowers and gray-green evergreen foliage. The aromatic flower stems are useful for cutting and potpourri, and the blooms attract butterflies. This cultivar was raised by Don Roberts at Premier Botanicals and was introduced in 1988. ## Size and Placement The [Joy Creek cultivar archive](https://www.joycreek.com/Lavandula-Buena-Vista-046-044.htm) records a mature size of about 20 inches tall by 25 inches wide, with flowering in June and September. The [Denver Botanic Gardens profile](https://navigate.botanicgardens.org/weboi/oecgi2.exe/INET_ECM_DispPl?DETAIL=1&NAMENUM=47119&startpage=1) identifies its dark and light blue flowers, evergreen foliage, sun exposure, butterfly interest, and USDA Zone 5 as its coldest hardy zone. Use full sun and leave room for its more open habit. ## Growing Conditions Plant in sharply drained soil; lavender is especially vulnerable to winter wetness. A gravelly mulch or raised planting area can help keep the crown dry in rainy climates. Water regularly while establishing, then avoid frequent irrigation once roots are settled. ## Maintenance Harvest stems just before the buds open for fragrant dried arrangements or potpourri. After flowering, trim lightly to keep the plant neat, taking care not to cut into old, leafless stems.