| Lavender angustifolia is one of the richest in essential oils, meaning more fragrance power both fresh and dried. And this 'Munstead' cultivar has a more compact habit and earlier blooming lavender flowers. Fresh flowers can be crystalized and used in candies and cakes; dried flowers are used in potpourris and sachets; oils are used in creams and perfumes. And these are only some of the more common uses -- imagination can create endless more! An evergreen perennial, Lavender 'Munstead' has a subtle blue-green coloring and sweet fragrance. Reaching 12 to 18 inches high and 18 to 24 inches wide, it boasts 2 1/2 inch, linear, downy leaves on strong stems. The leaves first open white, then turn a pale gray-blue-green. Stalks of lavender flowers grow up to 12 inches tall. Grow in a well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in an open, sunny spot. Trim back in spring to encourage bushier growth; also deadhead after flowering. Zones 5-9. |
