Lavandula angustifolia ‘Munstead’ is a classic perennial that graces gardens across the UK with its timeless charm and calming fragrance. This compact lavender variety forms neat mounds of silvery-grey foliage topped with soft purple flower spikes, blooming reliably from late spring through summer. Perfectly suited to British gardens, it’s naturally deer- and rabbit-resistant and is a haven for bees and butterflies, making it as beneficial as it is beautiful.
A firm favourite for its versatility, ‘Munstead’ lavender fits effortlessly into a range of garden styles. It’s ideal for edging paths, creating low hedges, or adding structure to cottage-style and formal borders. Its manageable growth habit ensures it complements rather than competes with neighbouring plants, making it a dependable choice for mixed planting schemes.
Lavandula ‘Munstead’ thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, easily adapting to the UK’s temperate climate. Once established, it’s remarkably drought-tolerant, requiring little more than a light prune after flowering to keep it neat and encourage abundant blooms the following year. This low-maintenance nature makes it a perfect addition for gardeners seeking elegance without the effort.
The plant also offers practical benefits for British homes and gardens. Its fragrant flowers are ideal for cutting and drying, perfect for creating traditional lavender sachets or potpourri. What’s more, its naturally aromatic oils help to deter pests like midges and mosquitoes, making it a thoughtful addition to seating areas during long summer evenings.
For colder parts of the UK, a layer of mulch or grit around the base in winter can provide extra root protection, ensuring this reliable perennial comes back year after year. Whether you’re planting a lavender border, enhancing a pollinator-friendly garden, or adding a touch of timeless beauty to a patio pot, Lavandula angustifolia ‘Munstead’ is a quintessentially British choice.
Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead'
Character Details Plant Type Perennial Flower Colour Purple Flowering Months Jul-Oct Evergreen/Deciduous Semi-evergreen (partially retains leaves) Insect & Wildlife Friendly Attracts pollinators Sun Level Full sun Soil Type Well-drained, loamy or sandy Eventual Height 80-200 cm (32-48 inches) Eventual Spread 80-200 cm (32-48 inches) Shape Upright Border Position Back to middle border Companion Plants Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower), Stipa tenuissima (Mexican Feather Grass), Salvia nemorosa (Wood Sage)