Lavandula multifida aka Fern Leaf Lavender

Taxonomy

Lavandula multifida, also known as fernleaf lavender or Egyptian lavender, is a small evergreen shrub native to the southern regions of the Mediterranean. It can grow up to 24 inches tall and has grey and woolly stems. The leaves are double pinnate and have a grey-green, fern-like appearance. From early summer to autumn, long-stalked flowers of violet-blue bloom above the foliage. This lavender is both grown as a herb and as an ornamental plant. In cooler climates, it is killed by winter frost but can be grown as an annual. Cultivars such as 'Spanish Eyes' are available. The foliage of L. multifida is aromatic, resembling oregano more than typical lavender. It is commonly referred to as French lace lavender due to its lacy, deeply lobed, grayish-green leaves. This versatile plant can be used in cooking, skincare products, potpourri, and scented sachets. It can also be grown as a low hedge, border, or edge, reaching a height and width of about two feet. In warmer climates, fernleaf lavender will produce flowers year-round, adding beauty and fragrance to the garden.

Common names

Fern Leaf Lavender, Cut Leaf Lavender, Downy Lavender

How to care for Fern Leaf Lavender

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Fern Leaf Lavender, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Fern Leaf Lavender should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Fern Leaf Lavender loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Fern Leaf Lavender thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Downy Lavender.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Fern Leaf Lavender plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Humidity

The Fern Leaf Lavender does not demand additional humidity levels. Water is mostly absorbed by the roots of plants, rather than their leaves, and the best way to provide humidity to your plants is through watering the soil.

Fertilizer

The Fern Leaf Lavender is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Fern Leaf Lavender’s native range is Old World.


More info:
Wikipedia