Fernleaf Lavender (Lavandula multifida) offers a unique combination of delicate aesthetics and the classic, beloved lavender aroma. This plant stands out for its distinctive foliage, which gives it its common name, alongside its fragrant blooms. It serves as an appealing choice for gardeners seeking an ornamental plant that adds both visual interest and a pleasant scent to various outdoor spaces.
Unique Characteristics and Identification
Its foliage is particularly striking, featuring deeply lobed, fern-like leaves that are typically silvery-green, sometimes described as lacy. These leaves are soft to the touch and release an aromatic scent, though some note it can have a hint of oregano rather than a typical lavender fragrance.
The plant produces small, vibrant flowers that range from purple to blue-violet, often appearing on long spikes above the foliage. Its flower spikes can be single or three-pronged. Fernleaf Lavender generally grows as a bushy, upright subshrub, reaching a mature height of about 18 to 36 inches (45-90 cm) with a similar spread of 24 to 36 inches (60-90 cm). It maintains an evergreen presence in warmer climates, blooming continuously from late spring through summer.
Comprehensive Growing and Care Guide
Fernleaf Lavender requires adequate sunlight. This plant thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced bloom production.
Well-draining soil is important for Fernleaf Lavender, as it is highly susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. Sandy or gravelly soil is ideal, with a preference for a slightly alkaline to neutral pH, typically ranging from 6.7 to 7.3. Incorporating coarse grit or sand can enhance drainage if your garden soil is heavy.
Once established, Fernleaf Lavender is drought-tolerant, reflecting its Mediterranean origins. During the establishment phase, however, regular watering is important. After this period, water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent over-saturation.
It is hardy in USDA zones 7-9, though some sources extend this to zones 8-11. It shows better tolerance for summer heat and humidity compared to some other lavender species. However, it is sensitive to frost, with unprotected plants potentially not surviving temperatures below 20°F (-7°C). Fertilization should be minimal, if at all, as rich soil can reduce flowering; if desired, a weak, bloom-boosting fertilizer can be applied monthly during the growing season.
Pruning and Maintenance
Proper pruning maintains Fernleaf Lavender’s health and appearance. The primary pruning should occur after the main flush of blooms in late spring or early summer. A lighter trim can also be performed in late summer or early fall.
To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers. To maintain a compact, bushy shape and prevent the plant from becoming woody, lightly trim back the foliage, removing about one-third of the growth. It is important to avoid cutting too severely into old, woody stems, as these may not regenerate new growth effectively.
Regular pruning also plays a role in plant health by improving air circulation within the plant, which can reduce the risk of fungal diseases. This practice helps to ensure the plant remains vigorous and productive.
Common Uses and Benefits
Fernleaf Lavender offers ornamental value in various garden designs. Its unique fern-like foliage and attractive flowers make it suitable for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and borders. It also performs well in containers, where its compact size and fragrant qualities can be appreciated closer to patios and entryways.
The plant’s strong, pleasant scent allows for enjoyment in the garden or by harvesting sprigs for indoor use. These fragrant cuttings can be incorporated into sachets or potpourri. Beyond its aesthetic and aromatic appeal, Fernleaf Lavender attracts beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity. It is also deer and rabbit resistant, making it a good choice for areas where these animals might be an issue.