Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem: A Beautiful and Versatile Lavender Variety
When it comes to lavender, Lavandula angustifolia or English lavender is the most common variety. With its sweet fragrance and beautiful purple flowers, it's no wonder why this plant has been popular for centuries. However, not all Lavandula angustifolia varieties are created equal. One standout cultivar is the Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem, which boasts unique characteristics that set it apart from other lavender varieties.
What is Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem?
Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem is a lavender cultivar that was developed in 2004 by Downderry Nursery in Kent, England. It's known for its compact size, dense foliage, and profuse blooming throughout the summer months. This cultivar is ideal for those who want to grow lavender in containers or small gardens as it only grows up to 60 cm tall and 45 cm wide.
Appearance and Characteristics
The Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem is characterized by its narrow, gray-green leaves and dark purple flowers that bloom in mid-summer. The flowers are larger than those of other Lavandula angustifolia varieties, measuring up to 3 cm long. The plant has a compact and bushy habit with a mature height of 30-60 cm and a spread of 30-45 cm.
This cultivar is also drought-tolerant and can survive in various soil types, as long as they're well-draining. Unlike other lavender varieties that have a short blooming period, Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem blooms for a longer period and attracts bees and butterflies to the garden.
Uses and Benefits
The Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem is not only a beautiful addition to any garden but also has many practical uses. Its oil is commonly used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and relieve stress. It's also a popular ingredient in perfumes, soaps, and skincare products due to its pleasant scent and therapeutic properties.
In the garden, Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem can be used as a low hedge, border, or container plant. Its compact size makes it a great choice for small gardens or balconies. The plant also deters pests such as mosquitoes and flies, making it an excellent companion plant for vegetables and herbs.
Growing Tips
To grow Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem successfully, you need to provide the plant with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. It's essential to avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning is also necessary to keep the plant compact and encourage more blooming. You can prune Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem after the first bloom in mid-summer and again in early spring before new growth emerges.
Lavandula Angustifolia Imperial Gem is a versatile and stunning lavender variety that's worth adding to your garden. Its compact size, prolonged blooming period, and multiple uses make it an excellent choice for gardeners and herbalists alike. By following the growing tips mentioned above, you can enjoy this beautiful plant for years to come.
Lavender, English lavender, Lavandula angustifolia, Cultivar, Compact size, Drought-tolerant, Aromatherapy, Skincare, Pests, Growing tips
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