Variegated lavender - Lavandula angustifolia 'Platinum Blonde'

Lavandula angustifolia 'Platinum Blonde' , also known as 'Platinum Blonde Variegated Lavender', is a cultivar of the species Lavandula angustifolia in the Lamiaceae family. This evergreen perennial is prized for its variegated foliage with creamy-yellow edges and its fragrant, bluish-purple flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region, 'Platinum Blonde' is a popular choice for ornamental gardens, borders, rockeries or containers, due to its decorative appearance, intense fragrance and drought tolerance.

Appearance of leaves, flowers and fruits

• Leaves : The leaves are linear, narrow, 2-5 cm long, with a slightly hairy texture. They are a grayish-green in the center, with creamy-yellow edges, creating a distinct variegated effect. The foliage is aromatic, releasing a typical lavender scent when touched, and remains attractive throughout the year.
• Flowers : The flowers are small, tubular, grouped in dense spikes, 5-8 cm long, of a vibrant bluish-purple . They appear on erect stems, above the foliage, from June to August . They are extremely fragrant, attracting bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Compared to other lavenders, the flowers are somewhat paler, but abundant.
• Fruit : Produces small, brown seeds in dry capsules, but these have no ornamental value and are rarely used for propagation due to the hybrid nature of the cultivar.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : Grows up to 40-50 cm tall and 50-90 cm wide , forming a compact, rounded bush with a tidy appearance.
• Vigor : Moderate growth, forming dense, gradually spreading bushes. It is more compact than other Lavandula angustifolia varieties.
• Type : Perennial, evergreen shrub with woody stems at the base and persistent foliage in mild climates.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun (6+ hours/day) to maximize flowering and foliage color intensity. Tolerates partial shade, but flowering may be reduced and variegation less pronounced.
• Soil : Grows in well-drained soils, preferably poor, sandy or stony, with neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5-7.5). Does not tolerate heavy, clayey or waterlogged soils.
• Watering : Water moderately for the first year, until the plant is established. Once mature, it is drought tolerant , requiring watering only during long periods of drought. Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
• Temperature : Hardy in zones 5-9 (down to -23°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. In harsh winters, mulch the base of the plant to protect the roots.

Care and resistance

• Hardiness : Tolerates drought, heat, poor soils, and urban pollution. Tolerates wind and is deer and rabbit resistant due to aromatic foliage. May be affected by root rot in wet soils or powdery mildew in poorly ventilated conditions.
• Fertilization : Requires minimal fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) once in the spring, but avoid overdoing it, which can reduce fragrance and blooms.
• Pruning : Cut off faded flowers after flowering (August-September) to encourage a possible second bloom and maintain the shape of the bush. In spring, lightly prune branches to stimulate new growth, avoiding cutting into old wood. Regular pruning prevents elongation and excessive lignification.
• Pests and Diseases : Rarely affected, but may attract aphids or mites in dry conditions. Inspect regularly and use insecticidal soap if necessary.
• Propagation : Propagate by semi-woody stem cuttings in summer or by division in spring. Seeds are less effective due to the hybrid nature.

Lavandula angustifolia 'Platinum Blonde ' is ideal for ornamental gardens , borders , rockeries , Mediterranean gardens or containers . The variegated foliage and fragrant flowers add contrast and elegance, combining well with plants such as sage, rosemary, santolina or ornamental grasses. It is used to create low hedges, to attract pollinators or for its fragrance in sensory gardens. The leaves and flowers can be dried for teas, scented sachets or essential oil, although the oil yield is lower than with other varieties.

Origin

Lavandula angustifolia is native to the Mediterranean region , growing naturally on rocky, sunny hillsides. The cultivar Lavanda Variegata 'Platinum Blonde' was selected for its variegated foliage and compact stature, and was introduced into horticulture relatively recently. It is a decorative variant of the classic lavender, optimized for modern landscapes and small gardens.

Height with pot included: approx. 20 cm

The plant is sold without flowers.