Lavender is cherished globally for its soothing fragrance and purple blooms, making it popular in aromatherapy, culinary uses, and ornamental gardening. The classic image of lavender fields belongs to the dry, temperate Mediterranean region. Growing lavender in Florida’s subtropical environment is challenging, but success is possible with the correct species selection and careful attention to growing conditions.
Why Growing Lavender in Florida is Difficult
The primary hurdle to successful lavender cultivation in Florida is the mismatch between the plant’s native arid habitat and the state’s high humidity. Lavender (Lavandula) is highly susceptible to fungal diseases, such as root rot and leaf spot, which flourish in consistently moist conditions. Warm temperatures combined with high atmospheric moisture create an ideal environment for these pathogens, often leading to the plant’s decline.
Florida’s intense summer heat is also a significant problem, especially when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. Although the plant requires abundant sun, extreme heat paired with high humidity stresses the plants, causing wilting and a cessation of growth. Traditional varieties, such as English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), are particularly vulnerable to this combination.
Lavender requires exceptionally well-draining, gritty soil with an alkaline pH. While Florida’s native soil is often sandy, it can retain too much moisture in the upper layers, which harms the root crown. Additionally, many native Florida soils tend to be acidic, lacking the alkalinity necessary to mimic the plant’s native Mediterranean environment.
Recommended Lavender Varieties for Hot Climates
Success in Florida requires selecting species adapted for heat and humidity tolerance, typically Spanish and French varieties rather than traditional English types. Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas) is frequently cited as one of the most reliable choices for hot, humid summers, particularly throughout Central Florida.
Spanish lavender is identified by its distinctive, cone-shaped flowers topped with colorful bracts, often called “bunny ears.” Cultivars like ‘Bandera Purple’ are hardy in Zones 7 to 10 and noted for their compact growth and excellent heat resilience. While highly ornamental, this variety is generally less suitable for culinary use.
French Lavender (Lavandula dentata) and its related hybrids are also excellent alternatives. French lavender features fringed, toothed leaves and a strong, herbal fragrance, making it a good choice for landscaping. The hybrid ‘Goodwin Creek Grey’ (Lavandula x ginginsii) is particularly robust in humid conditions, featuring silvery-gray foliage and long, deep purple flower spikes.
The hybrid lavandin cultivar ‘Phenomenal’ (Lavandula x intermedia) has gained recognition for its improved tolerance to both humidity and heat. This variety is a cross between English and spike lavender. It is known for its relatively large size, growing up to four feet tall, and its strong fragrance with lavender-purple blooms. ‘Phenomenal’ has been successfully tested across the humid Southeastern United States, confirming its viability.
Cultivation and Care Strategies for Florida Gardeners
The most important practice for lavender’s survival is establishing rapid, effective drainage to counter heavy rainfall and humidity. Planting the herb in raised beds or containers is highly recommended, as this provides control over the soil mixture and prevents waterlogged roots. The growing medium must incorporate coarse material such as builder’s sand, gravel, or perlite to achieve a gritty consistency.
Lavender thrives in lean, nutrient-poor soil, so excessive fertilization must be avoided. The plant requires a slightly alkaline environment, ideally maintaining a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Florida gardeners will likely need to amend their soil with horticultural lime to raise the pH level, as acidic soil stunts growth and inhibits flowering.
Lavender requires full sun for at least six to eight hours daily. However, the intense Florida afternoon sun can be harsh. In the hottest regions, place the plant where it receives morning sun but is protected by light afternoon shade to prevent scorching. Excellent airflow is paramount to combat fungal diseases, requiring plants to be spaced adequately for air circulation.
Watering must be managed carefully, as overwatering is the primary cause of failure in humid climates. Once established, the plant is highly drought-tolerant, and the soil should completely dry out before rewatering. When irrigation is needed, apply it directly to the base of the plant in the early morning, avoiding overhead watering which encourages fungal growth.
Strategic pruning is necessary to maintain the plant’s health and shape. A light pruning after the main flowering period promotes air circulation within the canopy and encourages fresh, non-woody growth. This technique prevents the dense, woody structure that can trap moisture and accelerate decay.