Spanish lavender is one of many different types of lavender. Although similar to other varieties, Spanish lavender has a unique characteristic of how they flower. Each flower resembles a dark maroon colored pineapple topped with coloured leaves, called bracts, that look like rabbit ears!
This plant is fairly easy to care for, only needing some basic care at planting, and a bit of extra care and pruning to ensure it does well.
There are a few basics to remember with your Spanish lavender;
· Lighting
· Temperature/Circulation
· Soil
· Watering
· Pruning
Lighting:
This plant needs full sun to grow well, and to produce the most flowers. Take into consideration that Spanish lavender is native to extremely dry places. The more sun it gets, the more flowers you’ll be able to enjoy!
Temperature & Circulation:
For growing inside, the lavender does need good ventilation and air circulation. However, ensure to not put it in direct flow of forced air. Ideal temperatures for Spanish lavender do range through night and day, as well as the seasons. Below is a chart to show the temperature best suited for the lavender during seasons and time of day;
Season | Time of Day | Temperature |
Spring to Mid Fall | Day Night | 21.1°C (70°F) 10-13°C (50-55°F) |
Fall through Winter | Day Night | 15-18°C (60-65°F) 7-16°C (45-50°F) |
Soil:
Spanish lavender requires a well-draining, sandy soil to grow healthy and lush. Although they prefer slightly moist soil, leaving it with standing water, or too much water will risk root disease to your plant.
When picking a pot for your lavender, the best option is one that has plenty of drainage. If the pot you like only has one hole, opt for drilling a few more. If you are planning on keeping the plant inside, pots with saucers are fine, as long as they are not attached.
Watering:
Similar to other lavender varieties, Spanish lavender doesn’t require much watering, and can withstand dry for a short period of time. However, the best conditions for your plant to grow, involves slightly moist soil. Throughout the stages of its growth, it does require different watering needs. See below for more info;
Stage | Water Needs |
Newly Planted | Water every other day for the first week (after planting). Water every three days in the first three months (if planted in spring/summer) |
Potted | Water as soil begins to dry out |
Winter | Move lavender inside, will need less water in winter |
Indoor | Check weekly and water as soil begins to dry out |
Pruning:
For your Spanish lavender, pruning encourages the plant to branch, which in turn will create a denser, thicker plant. However, care must be taken to avoid over pruning. Simply trim away around a third of the plant’s growth only after its first bloom of flowers. This also gives you the perfect time to harvest the sweet-smelling buds. You will want to prune the same amount after the second flush of blooms fade.