Spanish Lavender

Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas) is an aromatic evergreen shrub with gray-green foliage and flower heads crowned by conspicuous bracts. Its mature size varies by reference: [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lavandula-stoechas/common-name/topped-lavender/) describes plants about 2–3 feet tall and wide, while the [RHS species profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/24039/lavandula-stoechas/details) describes a plant to about 60 cm high and 40 cm wide. Garden-grown plants may reach 2–3 feet tall and wide, while RHS describes a smaller form of about 60 cm by 40 cm. ## Flowers and placement Flowers appear through spring and summer and provide nectar and pollen for visiting pollinators. Choose full sun and gritty, sandy, or loamy soil with excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged ground. This Mediterranean species is drought tolerant once established but less cold hardy than English lavender. ## Maintenance Water regularly while new roots establish, then let the soil dry between irrigation. Lightly shear after flowering to encourage a bushy shape, but do not cut into old bare wood. In cold or wet-winter regions, provide shelter or grow it in a container that can be protected.