FERNLEAF LAVENDER SEEDS

Lavandula multifida

ORGANIC

This species is hard to find in American nurseries, where the common name more often refers to L. pinnata. Rich in carvacrol, the foliage and flowers have a unique camphorous oregano fragrance and flavor. Listed most often as a perennial, these plants are actually little woody subshrubs that cannot tolerate frost but can be easily grown as an annual in the north. The pretty purple flowers top bare 12"-18" stems from summer through autumn.

We grow these plants in a terra cotta pot placed where the delicately cut foliage can be thoroughly appreciated. In frost-free arid regions these plants make an amazing groundcover, but for most gardeners in North America they should be grown in containers placed in warm full sun, or tucked into the dry herb or alpine garden. Plants may be overwintered indoors, but with minimal success in our experience. Indigenous to the western reaches of the Mediterranean, though the species is sometimes listed as Egyptian Lavender. These plants must grow in hot sunny sharply drained basic soils to thrive.

These seeds sometimes require cool (not freezing) temperatures to break dormancy. Press seeds into moist soil, barely dusting with fine vermiculite and mist carefully before covering with plastic to maintain moisture. Place pot in the refrigerator for 2-4 weeks before returning to room temperature in bright light. Seeds should then germinate within two weeks or so at 70°F. Alternatively, the seeds will sometimes germinate straight away in an unheated barn or basement with warm grow lights on a timer, or in a cool greenhouse in late winter and early spring. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual deep pots of an organic cactus mix cut with or Light Warrior Fox Farm seed starting mix at warm temperatures in bright light. Water young plants regularly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and fertilize weekly with dilute seaweed extract to encourage root development. Harden off thoroughly before planting or placing plants outdoors in full sun long after all danger of frost has passed.

Perhaps only marginally valuable as a culinary herb, but one of the most charming plants to grow in a container on the patio and alongside other tender annual herbs like Yauhtli and Sangria Agastache. The fragrance of the foliage is lovely and the plants are tough as nails, making them ideal for neglectful gardeners.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.