Dwarf lavender variety Aromatic grey green foliage with dense spikes of light blue flowers Attract...Dwarf lavender variety Aromatic grey green foliage with dense spikes of light blue flowers Attractive to bees and other beneficial pollinators Perfect for a variety of uses, including culinary and medicinal purposes 3 Plants 'Munstead' is a popular dwarf lavender variety, loved for its aromatic grey green foliage with dense spikes of light blue flowers. It's excellent for low borders and containers due to its compact habit. A wonderful ornamental in your garden, or a perfect addition to your herb garden, as it produces an abundance of fragrant flowers which attract bees and butterflies. Excellent for herb sachets, fresh or dried arrangements, as well as adding flavour to desserts and drinks.
This guide is for gardeners looking to add fragrant, low-maintenance beauty to their outdoor spaces or herb gardens. The 'Munstead' dwarf lavender offers aromatic grey-green foliage and spikes of light blue flowers, attracting pollinators while being versatile for culinary and medicinal uses. A potential caveat is its need for well-drained soil to thrive.
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Model Part Number
10805568
Brand
Marshalls Garden
Extended Product Information
FAQs
When is the best time to plant Lavender 'Munstead'?
The best time to plant is in spring after the last frost, or in early autumn, allowing the plant to establish before winter.
How much sun does this lavender need?
Lavender 'Munstead' requires full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Can I grow this in a pot?
Yes, 'Munstead' dwarf lavender is well-suited for containers. Ensure the pot has drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix, perhaps with added grit.
How do I harvest the flowers?
Harvest flower spikes when they are about half to three-quarters open. Cut the stems just above a leaf cluster. For drying, hang bunches upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place.
Is it safe for pets?
Lavender is generally considered safe for cats and dogs, though some animals may have individual sensitivities. Ingesting large quantities could cause an upset stomach.
How cold-hardy is 'Munstead' dwarf lavender?
It is generally hardy in USDA zones 5-9. In colder climates, providing some winter protection, such as mulch, might be beneficial.
Can I use the flowers in cooking?
Yes, the flowers are edible and can be used to flavor desserts, drinks, and savory dishes. Use them sparingly as they have a strong flavor.
Troubleshooting
Plant wilting or yellowing leaves
This is often due to overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil is dry to the touch before watering again and consider improving soil drainage.
Leggy growth with few flowers
The plant may not be receiving enough sunlight. Move to a sunnier location or prune back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
No fragrance from flowers or foliage
Ensure the plant is in full sun and has not been over-fertilized. Fragrance is strongest in hot, dry conditions.
Root rot
Caused by excessive moisture. Ensure excellent drainage, and avoid planting in soggy areas. Trim away any rotten roots and repot in well-draining soil if in a container.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Compact size is perfect for smaller gardens and containers.
Pleasant fragrance from both foliage and flowers.
Versatile for ornamental, culinary, and medicinal uses.
Drought-tolerant once established, requiring less water.
Cons
Requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
May be sensitive to harsh winter conditions in some climates.
Needs full sun for best flowering and growth.
Can be susceptible to overwatering if drainage is poor.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Planting:
Choose a location with full sun (at least 6-8 hours daily).
Ensure the soil is well-drained; amend heavy clay soil with grit or sand.
Space plants according to their mature size, typically 12-18 inches apart.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and plant at the same depth as it was in its nursery pot.
Water thoroughly after planting.
Care:
Watering: Water regularly until established. Once mature, water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to encourage a bushy habit and prevent it from becoming leggy. A harder prune in early spring can be done to shape the plant and remove dead wood.
Soil: Prefers neutral to alkaline, well-drained soil. It thrives in average to poor soils but dislikes overly rich conditions.
Fertilizing: Generally does not require feeding; excessive fertilizer can lead to weak growth and reduced fragrance.