Which Lavender Varieties Suit Your Garden?
Lavender is a classic choice for Dutch and Belgian gardens, but not all lavenders are the same. Choosing the right type can make a big difference in how your plants perform, especially with our local climate and soil. Below, we introduce the most popular lavender varieties and their main characteristics, so you can find the best match for your garden.
Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender)
Lavandula angustifolia is often called "true lavender" or "English lavender." It is well-known for its compact growth, narrow grey-green leaves, and sweetly scented purple-blue flowers. This type is generally the most winter-hardy and is well-suited to borders, low hedges, and pots. Flowering usually starts in June or July and can last several weeks. Angustifolia prefers full sun and well-drained, not too rich soil.
Lavandula stoechas (French or Spanish Lavender)
Lavandula stoechas, also known as "French lavender" or "butterfly lavender," is easy to recognize by its distinctive flower heads with upright, petal-like bracts. The scent is more resinous and less sweet than angustifolia. Stoechas blooms earlier, often from May, and can flower again later in the season. However, it is less hardy and may need winter protection in colder areas. This type is ideal for pots or sheltered spots in the garden.
Lavandula x intermedia (Lavandin)
Lavandula x intermedia, or "lavandin," is a hybrid between angustifolia and latifolia. These plants are usually larger, with longer flower spikes and a strong, sometimes sharper fragrance. Lavandin is often used for oil production and dried flowers. It is somewhat less hardy than angustifolia but more robust than stoechas. Flowering is typically in July and August. Lavandin thrives in sunny, open spots with well-drained soil.
Comparison: Growth, Fragrance, and Winter Hardiness
- Growth: Angustifolia is compact (30–60 cm), stoechas is bushy but smaller, and lavandin can reach up to 80–100 cm.
- Fragrance: Angustifolia is sweet and classic, stoechas is more herbal, and lavandin is strong and sometimes sharper.
- Winter hardiness: Angustifolia is the most reliable for Dutch and Belgian winters. Lavandin is fairly hardy but may suffer in severe frost. Stoechas is the least hardy and may need protection or replanting.
Read more about lavender:
Frequently Asked Questions about Lavender Varieties
- Which lavender variety is the most winter-hardy?
- Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender) is generally the most winter-hardy and best suited for Dutch and Belgian gardens. However, hardiness can vary by cultivar and local conditions. In colder areas, extra protection may still be needed.
- Which lavender has the strongest scent?
- Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia) is known for its strong, sometimes sharper fragrance, while English lavender (angustifolia) has a sweeter, classic scent. The intensity can also depend on the specific variety and growing conditions.
- Can you combine different lavender types in one garden?
- Yes, you can combine different lavender types for varied flowering times and scents. Just keep in mind their different growth habits and winter hardiness. Place less hardy types like stoechas in more sheltered spots or pots.
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