Lavandula, Genus, ×, Hybrid, intermedia, Species, 'Provence', Cultivar,
- Genus & species
- Hybrid
- Cultivar
provence lavender
Garden hybrid; L. angustifolia × L. latifolia; evokes the lavender fields of Provence, France
Overview
Lavandula × intermedia 'Provence' is a lavandin that captures the look and fragrance of the French lavender fields. Plants grow 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) tall and 30-36 inches (75-90 cm) wide. Soft lavender-blue to pale violet flowers in long terminal spikes in July and August. 'Provence' is selected for the highest essential oil content among garden lavandins, suiting the cultivar to sachets, potpourri, essential oil extraction, and culinary use. The fragrance is the richest and most complex of the lavandins, with the sweet floral depth that defines the lavender fields of southeastern France. The color is softer and lighter than 'Phenomenal', a hazy lavender-blue rather than the more saturated violet. Slightly larger overall than 'Phenomenal'. The long flower stems work well for cutting and drying. Same lavandin cultural needs: lean, alkaline, sharply drained soil in full sun. Silver-gray evergreen foliage. Deer avoid the aromatic foliage.
Native Range
Lavandula × intermedia 'Provence' is a garden hybrid (L. angustifolia × L. latifolia).Suggested Uses
Used for essential oil production, sachets, potpourri, culinary use, and as a large fragrant hedge. The lavandin with the highest essential oil content among garden cultivars. The lavender that evokes the Provencal fields. Container culture (7 gallons / 26 liters). 'Provence' is the choice when fragrance is the priority; 'Phenomenal' is the choice when humidity tolerance is the priority.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 3'
Width/Spread2'6" - 3'
Bloom Information
Flowering in July and August, approximately 5 weeks. Soft lavender-blue long spikes.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Soft lavender-blue to pale violet; in long terminal spikesFoliage Description
Silver-gray; narrow, aromatic; evergreenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Sited in full sun. Lean, sharply drained, alkaline soil. Pruned in early spring; never into old brown wood. Sheared after bloom. Suited to essential oil and fragrance use.Pruning
Pruned in early spring to green growth. Sheared after bloom. Never cut into old brown wood.Pruning Schedule
Prune: March–April & August
early springsummer
Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 7 gallons
