Old-Fashioned English Lavender “Vera” (Lavandula angustifolia) is the traditional heritage lavender prized for its silvery foliage and rich purple flower spikes. Known for its natural hardiness, compact habit, and long bloom time, Vera thrives in sunny, dry soils and adds elegant structure to borders, cottage gardens, rock landscapes, and pathway edges. Its nectar-rich flowers support bees and butterflies all summer, while the silver foliage provides year-round ornamental interest.
Features
- Traditional English lavender variety with classic purple blooms.
- Silver-gray aromatic foliage creates striking garden contrast.
- Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and pollinators.
- Drought tolerant and resilient in dry, sunny conditions.
- Ideal for borders, pathways, rock gardens, and cottage gardens.
- Non-GMO heirloom Lavandula angustifolia ‘Vera’ seed variety.
Specifications
- Common Name: Vera English Lavender, Old-Fashioned Lavender
- Scientific Name: Lavandula angustifolia ‘Vera’
- Plant Type: Perennial flowering herb
- USDA Zones: 5–9
- Bloom Color: Purple-violet flower spikes
- Foliage: Silvery gray-green, narrow leaves
- Height: 12–30 inches
- Spread: 12–24 inches
- Growth Habit: Upright, mounded, slow-growing
- Heirloom: Yes (classic historical type)
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Preference: Well-drained sandy, rocky, or dry soil
- Water Needs: Low once established
- Drought Tolerance: High
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes (bees, butterflies)
- Deer & Rabbit Resistance: High
- Maintenance: Low; prefers lean soil
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
- Seed Viability: 1–2 years (fresh seed preferred)
Planting Guide
- Cold stratify seeds 4–6 weeks in refrigeration in moist medium.
- Sow indoors 8–10 weeks before the final frost or sow outdoors in fall.
- Lightly press seeds into soil; barely cover (about 1/8 inch).
- Keep soil slightly moist until germination (14–35 days).
- Provide bright light and air flow for seedlings.
- Transplant outdoors after frost into dry, well-drained soil.
- Choose full sun for compact growth and rich flower color.
- Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
- Trim lightly after flowering to maintain a tidy shape.
