French Lavender 'Gros Bleu'

Gros Bleu is a French lavandin with dense growth, aromatic gray-green foliage, and deep violet-purple flower spikes on long stems. The RHS describes an upright evergreen shrub reaching about 3 feet tall, while a current nursery listing gives an approximate 3-by-3-foot mature size and USDA zones 5–9. ## Plant Character This named selection is valued for its dark flower color and long stems, which work well in fresh or dried bouquets. Its bushy form also suits a sunny border, gravel garden, or mass planting. The RHS reports fragrant flowers in late summer and notes the plant’s gray-green foliage. ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun and well-drained soil; sand, chalk, and loam are suitable textures. The RHS lists acidic, neutral, or alkaline soil where drainage is good. Once established, this lavandin tolerates dry conditions, but avoid keeping its roots wet through winter. ## Maintenance Remove spent flower stems after bloom and trim in late summer to retain a dense outline. Do not cut into bare old wood, and avoid hard pruning in autumn in cold or wet climates. Read the [RHS Gros Bleu profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/197139/lavandula-%C3%97-intermedia-gros-bleu/details) and [Charsaw Farms plant listing](https://charsawfarms.com/products/lavandula-x-intermedia-gros-bleu-lavandin-gros-bleu) for selection-specific details.