Lavender in pots - Lavandula angustifolia 'Essence Purple'

Lavandula angustifolia 'Essence Purple' is a variety of English lavender appreciated for its intense purple flowers and strong aroma. This is a perennial, drought-resistant plant that grows in compact bushes and produces very fragrant flowers, being suitable both for ornamental gardens and for use in floral arrangements or aromatherapy products.

Description:

• Leaves: The leaves are small, narrow, silver-green, with a velvety texture.
• Flowers: The flowers are grouped in long spikes and are of an intense purple, with a sweet scent, typical of lavender. Flowers usually appear at the beginning of summer and can last until the end of the warm season.
• Dimensions: The plant forms compact bushes, growing up to about 30-45 cm high and having a spread of about 60 cm.

Care:

1. Light: Lavender 'Essence Purple' prefers sunny locations, with full sun, needing at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive and bloom profusely.
2. Soil: The plant requires a well-drained soil, preferably sandy or stony, with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Avoid wet soils, as they can cause root rot.
3. Watering: Being drought resistant, lavender needs moderate watering. The soil must be allowed to dry between waterings to prevent the accumulation of water at the level of the roots.
4. Pruning: Regular pruning of the plant is recommended, usually at the end of summer, to maintain the compact shape and encourage future growth and flowering.
5. Cold resistance: Lavandula angustifolia 'Essence Purple' is resistant to low temperatures, enduring winters with temperatures down to -15°C.

Uses:

• Ornamental: It is ideal for borders, rock gardens and garden arrangements due to its elegant appearance and pleasant fragrance.
• Aromatherapy: Dried flowers are used in scented sachets, cosmetic products or for essential oils.
• Attracts pollinators: Attracts butterflies and bees, contributing to biodiversity in the garden.

Lavender 'Essence Purple' is one of the most appreciated varieties of lavender due to its intense color and strong fragrance, being an excellent choice both for gardens and for practical uses in the home and cosmetics.