Lavandula x intermedia (Lavandin)

Lavandula × intermedia (Lavandin): A Gardener’s Guide

Quick Facts — Lavandin (Lavandula × intermedia)

Summary: Vigorous hybrid lavender famed for its long flower stems, abundant mid–late summer bloom, and strong, clean fragrance. Excellent for hedges, cutting and drying.
Taste/Aroma: Classic lavender with a brighter, slightly camphoraceous edge (from L. latifolia).
Use: Borders, low hedges, gravel/Mediterranean gardens, containers; cut & dried flowers; essential oil (perfume, sachets).
Safety: Generally non-toxic as a garden plant; concentrated essential oils may irritate sensitive people/pets—use as directed.

Botanical Name	Lavandula × intermedia Emeric ex Loisel.
Family	Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Common Names	Lavandin; Hybrid Lavender
Native Range	Hybrid of L. angustifolia × L. latifolia; of horticultural origin, widely cultivated (Mediterranean style climates)
Plant Type & Habit	Evergreen sub-shrub; dense, rounded mound of narrow, silvery-gray leaves; very long flowering stems
Hardiness (USDA)	5–9 (typically a bit less cold-hardy than L. angustifolia)
Size	Usually 2–3 ft (60–90 cm) tall and wide; some cultivars to ~4 ft (1.2 m)
Sun & Exposure	Full sun (6–8+ hrs/day)
Soil	Very well-drained; sandy/loamy/gravelly; average to lean fertility; pH neutral to alkaline (tolerates a range)
Bloom & Fruit	Violet-purple spikes on extra-long stems in mid–late summer; excellent for fresh or dried use; seed not typically important
Wildlife	Highly attractive to bees and butterflies; deer and rabbit resistant
Toxicity	Generally non-toxic as an ornamental; essential oils may cause irritation if misused
Invasiveness	Not considered invasive; clump-forming sub-shrub
Primary Uses	Hedges/edging, borders, gravel/rock & cottage gardens, containers; dried bouquets, sachets, wands; essential oil

Care (Quick)

• Plant in full sun with sharp drainage; amend heavy soil with grit or plant on a berm.
• Water regularly the first season; once established, keep on the dry side (drought tolerant).
• Space 2–3 ft (60–90 cm) for airflow; avoid overhead irrigation in humid climates.
• Prune lightly once a year (early spring or just after bloom); do not cut back to old woody stems.
• Feed sparingly; excessive fertility reduces fragrance and longevity.

What is Lavandin?

Lavandula x intermedia, commonly referred to as Lavandin, is a hybrid lavender variety born from the cross between Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia. This hybrid species boasts both ornamental and commercial benefits, which have led to its widespread cultivation around the world.

• Habit: The plant habit of Lavandula x intermedia is characterized by its dense, semi-evergreen shrub-like nature. It forms a bushy mound of silvery-grey, linear leaves. The mature size of these plants generally ranges between 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm) in height and spread, although some cultivars may reach larger sizes.
• Hardiness: Its hardiness varies from zones 5 to 9, making it slightly less hardy than English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia). However, it tends to grow larger and produce more flower spikes than other Lavenders.
• Flowers: The hallmark of Lavandula x intermedia is its flowers. From mid to late summer, it produces abundant flower spikes carrying small, fragrant, purple-blue flowers. The flowers have a stronger, sharper scent than other lavenders due to their higher camphor content, and they are excellent for cutting and drying.
• Uses: Lavandula x intermedia has a wide array of uses and benefits. It is cultivated extensively for the production of lavender oil, used in aromatherapy and perfume industries due to its potent fragrance. In landscaping, it’s employed as a border plant, in rock gardens, or as a part of a perennial garden.
• Benefits: It’s an attractive plant for pollinators, offering a source of nectar for bees and butterflies, thus enhancing biodiversity. Its flowers and foliage also have culinary uses, lending a delicate flavor to dishes and drinks.
• In addition, Lavandula x intermedia is known for its potential health benefits. It’s used in herbal medicine, with studies indicating potential soothing and antiseptic properties. The aroma of its essential oil may help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and elevate mood. However, it’s important to use it wisely and consult a healthcare provider before using it for medical purposes.