About Lavender
Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is an aromatic flowering perennial or subshrub known for its fragrant foliage, purple to violet flower spikes, silvery-green leaves, and strong value in sunny, well-drained landscapes.
It is widely used in herb gardens, pollinator gardens, cottage-style landscapes, borders, containers, and drought-conscious planting designs.
Different Lavender species and cultivars can vary significantly in mature size, cold tolerance, bloom period, flower form, and humidity tolerance. Because of that, exact characteristics depend on the variety currently being stocked.
Outdoor Warehouse Supply carries assorted Lavender varieties, with current selection and quantities depending on inventory.
| Plant Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Lavender |
| Botanical Group | Lavandula spp. and cultivars |
| Plant Type | Aromatic flowering perennial or subshrub |
| Availability | Assorted varieties; inventory may vary |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Varies by species and cultivar |
| Typical Mature Height | Approximately 1–3 feet depending on variety |
| Typical Mature Spread | Approximately 1–3 feet depending on variety |
| Spacing | Typically 18–36 inches apart depending on cultivar |
| Growth Habit | Mounded, upright, compact to spreading |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Water Requirements | Low once established |
| Soil Preference | Very well-drained soil |
| Foliage | Gray-green to silvery-green, aromatic |
| Flower Colors | Purple, violet, blue-purple, pink, or white depending on cultivar |
| Bloom Season | Typically spring through summer; some varieties rebloom |
| Pollinator Value | Excellent for bees and other pollinators |
| Common Uses | Herb gardens, borders, pollinator gardens, containers, cottage gardens, and low-water landscapes |
Lavender performance varies considerably by species, cultivar, drainage, humidity, and summer conditions.
Common Names Associated with Lavender
Lavender may be sold or searched under several names depending on the variety, including:
- Lavender
- English Lavender
- Spanish Lavender
- French Lavender
- Lavandin
- Lavandula
The genus name is Lavandula.
For the customer-facing product name, Lavender is the cleanest and strongest primary term.
Growth Habit & Mature Size
Lavender typically develops into a compact, rounded to slightly spreading mound.
Most landscape varieties mature around 1–3 feet tall and 1–3 feet wide, although exact dimensions depend heavily on cultivar.
Some selections stay relatively low and compact, while others form larger woody mounds over time.
Its compact form makes Lavender useful in borders, along walkways, in raised beds, and in grouped plantings where customers want fragrance, texture, and seasonal flower color.
Plant Spacing & Common Planting Patterns
Spacing should be based on the mature size of the specific Lavender variety.
A practical starting range is approximately 18–36 inches apart.
Closer spacing can create a denser border or massed appearance, while wider spacing allows more air movement around the plants.
Common planting uses include:
- Herb gardens
- Cottage-style borders
- Pollinator gardens
- Raised beds
- Containers
- Sunny foundation beds
- Walkway edges
- Low-water landscapes
- Mass plantings
Sun, Soil & Water Requirements
Lavender performs best in full sun.
Strong sunlight helps maintain compact growth, encourages flowering, and supports the aromatic oils that give the foliage its characteristic fragrance.
Drainage is extremely important.
Lavender performs best in soils that drain quickly and generally struggles in areas that remain wet for long periods.
This is especially important in North Texas, where heavy clay soils can retain moisture.
Once established, Lavender has relatively low water requirements.
Overwatering is often more problematic than short periods of drought.
Is Lavender Evergreen or Deciduous?
Lavender is generally considered evergreen to semi-evergreen, depending on species, cultivar, and winter conditions.
Some varieties retain much of their foliage through mild winters, while colder temperatures may cause partial dieback.
Hard freezes can damage stems and foliage, particularly on less cold-tolerant cultivars.
Because of this, evergreen appearance should not be assumed to be identical across every Lavender variety.
Growth Rate & Lifespan
Lavender generally has a moderate growth rate.
It can establish fairly quickly in warm weather when planted in full sun and well-drained soil.
Lavender is usually not considered an extremely long-lived shrub.
Many plants remain productive for several years, but woody growth, poor drainage, high humidity, or improper pruning can reduce longevity.
Good drainage and proper pruning are among the most important factors for keeping Lavender attractive over time.
Flowers & Seasonal Interest
Lavender is best known for its upright flower spikes.
Flower color varies by cultivar and may include:
- Purple
- Violet
- Blue-purple
- Pink
- White
Most Lavender varieties bloom primarily from spring into summer.
Some selections may rebloom or continue flowering intermittently depending on weather and pruning.
The foliage also provides year-round or near-year-round ornamental value with its soft gray-green to silvery coloration.
Lavender for Pollinator Gardens
Lavender is one of the most recognizable flowering plants for pollinator-focused landscapes.
Its flowers are especially attractive to:
- Bees
- Butterflies
- Other beneficial pollinating insects
Planting Lavender in groups can create a stronger visual effect while also providing a concentrated nectar source during flowering.
It pairs especially well with Salvia, Gaillardia, ornamental grasses, Rosemary, and other sunny, lower-water plants.
Lavender in North Texas Conditions
Lavender can perform well in Dallas–Fort Worth, but drainage is critical.
The combination of heavy clay soils, summer humidity, and high temperatures can be challenging for some Lavender types.
Raised beds, amended soils, gravelly planting areas, and slightly elevated planting locations can improve drainage and reduce root stress.
Customers should also avoid planting Lavender in low spots where water collects after rainfall.
Some varieties are better adapted to heat and humidity than others, so exact performance depends on the cultivar.
Pruning & Maintenance
Lavender benefits from periodic pruning to maintain a compact shape and reduce woody, open growth.
Light trimming after flowering can help keep the plant tidy.
More substantial pruning is generally best done carefully, avoiding deep cuts into old woody stems that may not produce strong new growth.
Good airflow and proper spacing also help reduce problems associated with excess moisture and humidity.
Pros & Cons of Lavender
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fragrant foliage and flowers | Poor drainage can cause rapid decline |
| Attractive purple to violet blooms | Some varieties struggle with North Texas humidity |
| Excellent pollinator value | Can become woody with age |
| Low water requirements once established | Overwatering is a common problem |
| Works well in herb and cottage gardens | Cold tolerance varies by variety |
| Performs well in full sun | Not ideal for heavy, constantly wet clay |
| Strong ornamental foliage color | Benefits from periodic pruning |
| Assorted varieties provide different flower forms and sizes | Exact performance varies by cultivar |
Lavender in Dallas–Fort Worth Landscapes
Lavender can be a beautiful addition to Dallas–Fort Worth landscapes when planted in the right conditions.
It performs best where customers can provide full sun, excellent drainage, and relatively low irrigation once established.
Its fragrance, flower color, and silvery foliage make it especially useful in herb gardens, pollinator beds, raised beds, containers, cottage-style landscapes, and drought-conscious designs.
In North Texas, site selection matters more than almost anything else. Heavy clay and prolonged moisture can create problems, so raised or well-drained planting areas are often preferable.
Outdoor Warehouse Supply carries assorted Lavender varieties, with current selection depending on inventory and seasonal availability.
Customers can contact our Plano or Lewisville sales staff for current varieties and quantities.
Industry Contractor & Wholesale Pricing
Outdoor Warehouse Supply offers industry contractor and wholesale pricing for qualifying landscape professionals, builders, property managers, and commercial customers.
Contractors can source Lavender alongside Rosemary, Salvia, flowering perennials, shrubs, ornamental grasses, soils, mulch, decorative stone, and other landscape materials for projects throughout Dallas–Fort Worth and North Texas.
Contact our Plano or Lewisville locations for current inventory and contractor pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What botanical name does Lavender use?
Lavender belongs to the genus Lavandula.
Different products may be different species or cultivars within that group.
Does Outdoor Warehouse Supply carry different Lavender varieties?
Yes. Outdoor Warehouse Supply carries assorted Lavender varieties.
Exact varieties may change depending on inventory and availability.
How big does Lavender get?
Most landscape Lavender varieties mature around 1–3 feet tall and 1–3 feet wide.
Exact dimensions vary by species and cultivar.
How far apart should Lavender be planted?
Approximately 18–36 inches apart is a useful starting range.
Final spacing should match the mature size of the particular variety.
Does Lavender need full sun?
Yes. Lavender performs best in full sun.
Insufficient sunlight can reduce flowering and create weaker growth.
Is Lavender drought tolerant?
Yes. Once established, most Lavender varieties have relatively low water requirements.
Good drainage is still essential.
Can Lavender grow in North Texas clay?
It can, but drainage must be improved.
Raised planting areas, amended soil, and avoiding low wet spots can greatly improve performance.
Is Lavender evergreen?
Many Lavender varieties are evergreen to semi-evergreen, but winter behavior varies by cultivar and weather.
When does Lavender bloom?
Most varieties bloom primarily from spring into summer, although some may rebloom later.
Does Lavender attract bees?
Yes. Lavender is highly attractive to bees and other pollinating insects.
Can Lavender grow in containers?
Yes. Containers can work very well because they allow better control over drainage.
Containers should have adequate drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix.
Why does Lavender sometimes die in Texas?
The most common problems are poor drainage, excessive irrigation, prolonged humidity, and planting in heavy wet soil.
Choosing an appropriate variety and planting location can greatly improve success.
