Lavandula 'Genghel'
Lavandula stoechas 'Helmsdale'
A shrub up to 70cm high, with a compact habit, evergreen, aromatic, linear, mid-green to dark green leaves up to 4cm long, and flowering stems up to 12cm long topped by spikes 2-4cm long of fragrant, very dark violet-blue flowers with dark reddish-purple bracts, from late spring or early summer
0.5-1 metres
0.5-1 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow in well-drained soil in a sheltered, sunny position. In colder areas, may need protection from very low temperatures and excess winter wet. Also suitable for growing in containers that can be overwintered in an unheated greenhouse. See lavender cultivation for further advice
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer, or by softwood cuttings of new growth in early summer. See our video How to take lavender cuttings for more advice
Pruning group 10; deadhead after flowering. Trimming in late summer prevents plants from becoming straggly, but you can leave plants for a season to benefit wildlife with seeds or as shelter if you prefer. Avoid pruning in autumn in wet or cold regions as this may leave plants vulnerable to winter damage. Avoid cutting back into old wood
May be susceptible to rosemary beetle, and to cuckoo spit (froghopper or spittle bug nymphs)
May be susceptible to grey moulds (Botrytis) and honey fungus (rarely)