Fanciers of French lavender love it for a lot more than its pleasant scent and dainty purple blossoms. Many are captivated by the distinctive serrated foliage that looks like it has been clipped with tiny pinking shears. Others appreciate its exceptionally long bloom time, with the flowers continuing for months on end, from early summer all the way until fall. And some value French lavender’s mounded shrub-like habit, which makes the plant versatile enough to be used as a fragrant, low-growing hedge.
Despite its many attributes, French lavender is very specific about its growing conditions and isn’t well-suited for some climates, particularly areas with cold winters. Here’s advice on what it takes to keep your French lavender healthy and brimming with blooms.
Note: French lavender was once classified as a sub-type of Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas), but is now considered to be a distinct species. However, Spanish lavender is still sometimes mislabeled as French lavender, so be sure to check the plant tag to make sure you’re buying L. dentata. Most commonly grown is gray French lavender (Lavandula dentata var. candicans) which is also a little tougher than the straight species.
Most French lavenders have narrow, grayish green, finely-toothed leaves, but there’s also a variety with white variegation. Foliage remains evergreen in warmer climates.
All types of lavender contains a small amount of linalool, a compound that may be toxic to dogs and cats, according to the ASPCA, especially if ingested in large quantities.
In the spring after the soil has warmed up and the threat of frost has passed. May also be planted in the fall in areas with mild winters.
This Mediterranean native requires sunny, hot, dry conditions to flourish. A climate with high temperatures, infrequent rainfall during the growing season, and low humidity is ideal. As with all lavender species, plant in a site that receives full sun (at least 6 hours daily). If not given ample sunlight, plants will bloom poorly, lack vigor, and be less fragrant.
Grows best in sandy, nutrient-poor, alkaline soil that provides excellent drainage. Avoid planting in heavy clay or in low spots prone to standing water.
It is generally easier to grow French lavender from nursery starts, since the seeds are small and tend to have a slow and erratic germination rate. To ensure good air circulation, space plants 2 to 3 feet apart, depending on their width at maturity. Water right after planting and continue to water every few days until plants become established. Because good drainage is essential, consider growing your plants in mounds, raised beds, or on slopes.
Compact varieties of French lavender (such as ‘Linda Ligon’) are perfect for growing in containers, which is a good option in areas where the plant isn’t hardy because you can move the pots indoors over winter. Be sure to plant in a high-quality, fast-draining potting mix in a container with multiple drainage holes, so your lavender won’t be sitting in standing water. Learn more about how to grow lavender in pots.
Established French lavender plants are extremely drought tolerant and only need to be watered during prolonged dry spells. To prevent root rot and fungal diseases, avoid overwatering and keep the leaves dry by watering at ground level or using drip irrigation. During the winter, when plants are dormant, no supplemental watering is needed.
Because French lavender is native to regions having sandy or rocky soils with low fertility, avoid using amendments that enrich the soil, such as compost or other organic matter. If you have dense clay soil, amend it with red lava rock or rice hulls to improve drainage. Also work some lime into the soil if it’s highly acidic (with a pH below 5.5). French lavender grows best in alkaline soils and won’t survive in soil that is too acidic. (Learn how to test the pH of your soil.)
Fertilizing French lavender is rarely necessary and may cause a surge in foliage growth at the expense of flower production. Plants will generally be more robust when grown in poor soil that is low in nutrients.
The best time to prune French lavender is in early spring, which will stimulate new growth and increase flower production. You can also prune again in the fall, after the flowers have faded, to reshape the plant and promote denser, thicker growth. Because French lavender will not grow back from old wood, drastically cutting it down to its woody base can kill it, so be sure to make your pruning cuts just above new leaf growth. Throughout the flowering season, deadhead your plants regularly to encourage the development of new blooms. See more on pruning lavender.
In climates where temperatures dip below zero degrees Fahrenheit, insulate your plants with a winter mulch of evergreen boughs, shredded leaves, or straw, especially if there’s a lack of snow cover. Proper soil drainage is also essential to plant survival in areas with cold, damp winters.
From seed or by stem cuttings taken from new growth in spring, before flower buds form.
Few pest or disease problems, but is susceptible to root rot and powdery mildew, especially in damp, humid climates. Poor air circulation between plants and a lack of pruning can exacerbate the problem.
French lavender (Lavandula dentata) is one of the most beloved lavender varieties for home gardens. With its iconic purple blooms and elegant gray-green foliage, this hardy lavender brings beauty and fragrance to outdoor spaces. But if you’re considering growing French lavender, you likely want to know – how big does it get? In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about French lavender’s mature size and growth habits.
An Overview of French Lavender
French lavender hails from the Mediterranean region and is more heat and humidity tolerant than some other lavender varieties. It produces light purple blooms on long stems from late spring through fall. The leaves are finely serrated and release a pine-like aroma when rubbed.
While not as sweetly scented as English lavender French lavender is less prone to common lavender problems like root rot and mildew. Its loose, informal growth habit makes it perfect for informal hedges borders, and mass plantings. Now let’s take a closer look at its size.
Mature Height of French Lavender
On average, French lavender grows to a mature height of 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm) tall. However, some cultivars may reach slightly shorter or taller:
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Dwarf French lavender cultivars like ‘Melissa Lilac’ and ‘Anouk’ grow 12 to 18 inches (30-45 cm) tall.
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Larger cultivars like ‘Folgate’ can reach up to 4 feet (120 cm) tall at maturity.
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Most standard French lavender plants will grow 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm) tall at maturity in ideal conditions.
Soil fertility, sunlight exposure, and climate can also impact mature height. Rich soils tend to produce more vigorous growth. Meanwhile, plants grown in shade or extreme heat may stay more compact.
Mature Width of French Lavender
The width of French lavender at maturity also depends largely on the cultivar:
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More compact varieties reach 1 to 2 feet (30-60 cm) wide.
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Larger cultivars can spread 3 to 4 feet (90-120 cm) across.
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On average, mature French lavender spreads 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm) wide.
Proper spacing while planting helps restrict width. Allow at least 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm) between plants to prevent overcrowding. Pruning and shearing established plants also controls width by keeping growth compact.
Growth Rate of French Lavender
French lavender grows relatively quickly, especially when cultivated in sandy, well-draining soil under full sun. Here’s what to expect:
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In warm climates, first-year plants may reach 18 inches (45 cm) tall and wide.
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Most plants take 2 to 3 years to fully mature to their maximum height and width.
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Once established, French lavender grows at a moderate rate of 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm) per year.
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Healthy plants can live 5 years or longer in ideal conditions. Staggering new plantings every 2 to 3 years ensures a continual supply of young, vigorous plants.
Factors That Affect French Lavender’s Size
Several cultural and environmental factors can influence the eventual mature size of French lavender:
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Soil conditions – Plants reach larger sizes in sandy, well-draining soils. Growth may be stunted in heavy clay or perpetually damp soils.
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Sun exposure – At least 6 hours of direct sun per day is needed for French lavender to reach its full size. Too much shade results in sparse, leggy growth.
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Climate – Hot, dry climates tend to produce larger plants than cool coastal regions. Protect plants from harsh winter winds in cold climates.
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Pruning and shearing – Regular pruning controls size by removing old wood and shaping plants. Avoid shearing too often as it can weaken plants over time.
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Cultivar – Compact cultivars have an inherently smaller mature size than larger varieties. Select cultivars suited to available space.
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Spacing – Allow enough room between plants to prevent overcrowding and competition for resources. This encourages plants to grow freely to their mature dimensions.
Factors That Determine French Lavender’s Width
The eventual width of French lavender also depends on various growing conditions:
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Loose, fast-draining soil provides room for roots to spread out.
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Full sun exposure prevents lanky, spaced-out growth.
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Ample spacing prevents competition between plants.
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Routine pruning keeps growth compact and prevents bare lower stems.
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More compact cultivars have a naturally smaller mature width.
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Excess shade or fertilizer can cause plants to grow leggy as they reach for light and nutrients.
Growing French Lavender in Containers
French lavender adapts well to container growing. Limit pot size to restrict growth. A 12-14 inch (30-35 cm) diameter pot is usually sufficient for most plants. Select dwarf cultivars for smaller containers. Grow in a lightweight potting mix and allow pots to fully dry out between waterings. Move containers to a frost-free spot in winter. Rejuvenate potted plants every 2 to 3 years by taking cuttings or replacing with fresh plants.
Tips for Managing French Lavender’s Size
Here are some tips for controlling the growth of French lavender:
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Space plants 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm) apart to avoid crowding.
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Prune annually after flowering to remove old wood and shape plants.
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Shear established hedges and borders lightly in midsummer to shape and compact growth. Avoid heavy shearing.
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Grow dwarf cultivars like ‘Anouk’ and ‘Melissa Lilac’ for smaller spaces.
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Use gravel mulch to keep soil dry and restrict vigorous growth.
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Reduce water and fertilizer to limit growth in rich soils.
Achieving the Perfect Size
With its airy purple blooms and elegant foliage, French lavender adds beauty, fragrance, and texture to both formal and informal garden designs. Allow enough space for this versatile lavender variety to grow to its mature size for maximum impact. Annual pruning and proper care will keep plants looking their best for years to come.
Will French lavender survive winter?
If the temperatures in your growing zone never drop below freezing, then you won’t need to take special measures to keep your French lavender alive during the winter months, as long as it is planted in well-draining soil. In areas of the country where French lavender isn’t hardy (Zone 7 and below), grow it as an annual or in a container that you can overwinter indoors.
Is French lavender edible?
French lavender flowers are not suitable for human consumption. However, you can harvest the blooms for use as cut flowers or to add to potpourris and dried floral bouquets.
How To Grow Insane Amounts of Lavender Like A Pro
FAQ
How much space does French lavender need?
It is generally easier to grow French lavender from nursery starts, since the seeds are small and tend to have a slow and erratic germination rate. To ensure good air circulation, space plants 2 to 3 feet apart, depending on their width at maturity.
What should not be planted next to lavender?
Where is the best place to plant French lavender?
Lavender is a Mediterranean plant (in needs if not always in geographic origin) and needs lots of sun and fast-draining soil. It will not survive long in shady, damp or extremely cold conditions. It prefers poor, dry or moderately fertile soil, including chalky and alkaline soils.
Is French lavender fast growing?
A large, fast growing shrub that is sometimes referred to as everblooming Lavender, French Lavender does best when kept at no more than three feet, including blooms. The large, blocky flower heads can be dried if picked before any of the little flowers turn brown.