Lavender 'Munstead'

English lavender 'Munstead' is a compact evergreen shrub with aromatic gray-green foliage and highly fragrant blue-purple flower spikes. It flowers in mid to late summer and reaches about 18 inches tall in the RHS profile. Its sunny, well-drained-site needs and compact habit suit cottage borders, gravel gardens, edging, and patio containers. ## Site and Growing Conditions The [Royal Horticultural Society profile for 'Munstead'](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/99904/lavandula-angustifolia-munstead/details) describes a bushy plant with narrow gray-green leaves and blue-purple flowers. It recommends full sun and chalk, loam, or sandy soil with good drainage. The profile gives a mature spread of 0.5–1 m (about 2–4 ft); allow airflow and avoid waterlogged ground. ## Seasonal Use The flower spikes open in mid to late summer and are highly fragrant. Use the compact shrub along a sunny path or border edge, in a gravel planting, or in a container with drainage holes. It remains evergreen in suitable conditions and can provide structure after flowering. ## Maintenance Trim lightly after flowering to keep the plant compact, avoiding cuts into old wood. Good drainage is important, especially in heavier soils; established plants tolerate dry periods.