Water deeply, then let soil dry substantially before watering again. Established plants need supplemental summer irrigation in Phoenix, especially in containers; avoid frequent shallow watering and wetting the crown.
English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is an aromatic, woody perennial with narrow, silvery-green leaves and fragrant flower spikes. Phoenix’s extreme summer heat makes it challenging to grow and potentially short-lived.
Light: Full morning sun with afternoon shade in Phoenix; avoid reflected heat from walls and pavement.
Water: Water deeply, then let soil dry substantially before watering again. Established plants need supplemental summer irrigation in Phoenix, especially in containers; avoid frequent shallow watering and wetting the crown.
Soil: Very well-drained, lean, sandy or gravelly soil. Tolerates alkaline conditions; use raised beds or containers where native soil drains poorly.
Mature size: 1–3 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide, depending on cultivar; flower stalks may extend above the foliage.
Bloom: Typically spring to early summer in Phoenix; flowering may decline or stop during extreme heat.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen, although severe summer stress can cause leaf loss or dieback.
Growth rate: Moderate during mild weather; slows markedly in extreme summer heat.