The numerous, intensely scented flowers of lavender are welcome food for numerous butterflies, bees and bumblebees. Due to its characteristic flower shape, the French lavender, which remains relatively small, is often also referred to as butterfly lavender. This lavender variety differs considerably from its sisters in terms of location and care.
Optimal for pot and balcony planting
The butterfly lavender only grows to an average height of between 25 and 40 centimeters, making it the perfect candidate for pot culture. The pretty little flower can also be kept in balcony boxes (€109.00) that are sufficiently deep and provided with drainage. This lavender variety also needs a lot of sun and must never be too wet, otherwise the roots will begin to rot. This is particularly important when cultivating in a balcony box, because excess water naturally cannot drain away here. Therefore, you should put the butterfly lavender in there either alone or with other plants that are similar in care. Plants with a high nutrient and water requirement, on the other hand, are unsuitable for socialization.
Butterfly lavender is not hardy
In contrast to the common lavender, which is often planted in gardens, the butterfly lavender does not tolerate drops in temperature and, above all, winter cold with difficulty. The plant is not hardy and should therefore never be left outdoors, but rather indoors if possible in relatively cool but frost-free temperatures. In very bad weather - sudden cold snaps or heavy downpours in summer - you can also put it in the room at short notice.
Butterfly lavender has other needs
Of all types of lavender, the crested or butterfly lavender has the longest flowering period. Depending on the weather conditions, this variety starts flowering as early as May and lasts until August. However, if possible, you should only put the butterfly lavender outside when no more cold snaps - especially night frosts - are to be expected. Cut off faded flowers early to encourage the plant to flower for a second time. With regard to the nutrient supply, there is a big difference to the other types of lavender: While these should be supplied with lime once a year, the butterfly lavender should never be placed in calcareous soil. You should therefore not water it with tap water either, as this also contains more or less lime depending on the region.
tips and tricks
With lavender you can be stingy with fertilizer; because the more the plants are fertilized, the less they bloom. Sometimes care tips can be read advising to fertilize lavender every two weeks. Please do not heed these tips.
IJA