Lavender plants are a popular choice for many gardens, admired for their beautiful purple blooms and distinct, soothing fragrance. These hardy perennials add visual appeal and a pleasant aroma, thriving in sunny, well-drained conditions. While often appreciated for its low maintenance and perceived resistance to pests, lavender is not entirely immune to being nibbled or damaged.
Animals That Might Eat Lavender
While generally unappealing, certain animals may consume lavender under specific circumstances. Young lavender plants, with their more tender growth, may be more susceptible to browsing than mature, established bushes. Rabbits, for instance, might occasionally nibble on fresh, new lavender shoots, especially if other food sources are scarce.
Voles are another potential concern; they are known to tunnel near or under lavender, especially if landscaping fabric provides cover. Some reports indicate voles consuming new growth of lavender plants. Deer generally avoid lavender due to its strong scent and taste. However, during extreme hunger, they might browse the plants, though significant damage is rare.
Slugs and snails can damage lavender leaves and flowers, leaving irregular holes. Insects like aphids, whiteflies, spittlebugs, and rosemary beetles can also affect lavender by sucking sap or consuming new shoots. Domestic pets like dogs and cats generally do not consume lavender plants in large quantities due to their strong aroma. However, lavender contains compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which can be toxic if ingested in significant amounts. While small nibbles usually don’t pose a severe threat, concentrated lavender essential oils are more dangerous to pets.
Why Lavender is Generally Avoided by Animals
Lavender’s natural defenses deter most animals. Rich in aromatic essential oils like linalool, linalyl acetate, and camphor, lavender has a strong scent and bitter taste. These compounds make it unappealing to many herbivores and can interfere with an animal’s ability to locate other food sources.
Deer, with their highly developed sense of smell, are particularly deterred by lavender’s pungent aroma, making it a recommended deer-resistant plant. Most varieties, including English and Spanish types, are effective. Rabbits are also repelled by lavender’s strong scent and bitter flavor, often avoiding it for other plants.
Rodents like mice, rats, and squirrels dislike lavender’s intense scent, finding it disorienting. Its fuzzy leaf texture further contributes to its unappealing nature for some animals. This combination of chemical and physical deterrents makes lavender a natural protector in many gardens.
Protecting Your Lavender Plants
Even though lavender is largely avoided, gardeners can protect their plants from occasional damage. For young or vulnerable lavender plants, physical barriers like chicken wire or hardware cloth can protect against larger animals like rabbits. These barriers prevent browsing until plants mature and become less appealing.
Maintaining lavender plant health enhances their natural resistance to pests and diseases. Proper drainage and adequate sunlight promote vigorous, resilient growth.
For slugs and snails, spreading diatomaceous earth or crushed eggshells around the plant base can deter them. Addressing sap-sucking insects like aphids or whiteflies involves rinsing affected areas with water or using insecticidal soap. These methods help ensure healthy, vibrant lavender plants.