Lavender 'Christiana' is a fragrant, tender evergreen lavandin hybrid celebrated for its striking silvery foliage and vibrant, long-lasting blue flower spikes. This plant not only enhances gardens with its aesthetic appeal but also serves as an excellent choice for cut flowers, adding seasonal charm to arrangements.
This bushy, upright shrub features stiff stems and narrow, serrated leaves that emit a pleasant aroma. The flower spikes, which can reach lengths of 30 to 60 cm, showcase trident-shaped blooms in shades of blue to lavender, primarily flowering in the summer while occasionally producing blooms throughout the year. It is fully hardy in the UK, tolerating temperatures down to approximately -15 °C.
Lavender 'Christiana' thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, whether sandy, chalky, loamy, or clay-based. It requires moderate watering, particularly during dry spells, especially for container-grown specimens. This variety attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects, making it a valuable addition to any garden. For optimal growth, prune after flowering to encourage regrowth and provide winter protection from frost and rain. The plant typically reaches a height and spread of 75 cm by 75 cm.
Growing Information
Grow lavender plants in free draining soil. Choose a position in full sun. Lavenders dislike wet ground, particularly during winter. Improve heavy soil conditions by adding coarse grit or sharp sand prior to planting. When growing lavender in large patio containers, use a well drained soil based compost such as John Innes No. 3. After planting, prune lavender plants to encourage bushy growth.
