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An evergreen perennial, Lavender 'Munstead' is a classic English Lavender for U.S. gardens, renowned for its heavy midsummer bloom strength and its fine tolerance of heat, humidity, and even drought (once established). It makes a breathtaking hedge, but also shines as a border accent, mass planting, and even a container subject.

Reaching 12 to 18 inches high and 18 inches wide, this classic cultivar sports gray-green foliage. Highly aromatic, the foliage makes excellent sachets, potpourri, and more. It is heavenly to brush against in the garden, releasing its scent most strongly when touched.

In midsummer the foliage is topped by masses of bright lavender-blue blooms, very full, rounded, and long-lasting. Bees and butterflies are drawn to this plant by the dozen, and you will be unable to keep yourself from cutting its stalks for fresh bouquets as well as Everlastings. An herb, this Lavender contains essential oils that can be used in cuisine, but is such a fine garden presence that it is also widely used as a low hedge and mass planting. Spectacular!

Grow in a well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in an open, sunny spot. Like all Lavenders, 'Munstead' needs very well-drained soil, and prefers to be kept on the dry side (once established). Very tolerant of heat, humidity, and drought, it is a fine performer in the U.S. Trim back in spring to encourage bushier growth; also deadhead after flowering. Zones 5-9.