Lavender, Provence

Provence Lavender (Lavandula x intermedia 'Provence')

Provence Lavender is a vigorous hybrid lavandin variety known for its exceptionally long stems, high essential oil yield, and clouds of soft lavender-purple blooms in mid to late summer. Unlike compact English types like 'Munstead' and 'Hidcote', 'Provence' offers bold structure, expansive flowering, and a stronger camphor-rich aroma. Originally cultivated in the lavender fields of southern France, this variety is ideal for herbal production, essential oil distillation, and large-scale pollinator plantings.

Key Characteristics

• Long-Stemmed and Heavy-Blooming
  'Provence' produces some of the longest flower stems of any lavender-often over 24 inches tall-making it ideal for dried bundles, floral arrangements, and market bouquets. Its airy, arching habit creates a flowing, romantic look in the landscape.

• Strong Fragrance, High Oil Content
  This variety is widely grown commercially for its potent essential oils, which have a strong, sweetly camphoraceous aroma. Flowers and buds are ideal for sachets, infused oils, soaps, and steam distillation-especially where maximum yield is desired.

• Thrives in Hot, Dry Gardens
  More tolerant of heat and humidity than English lavenders, 'Provence' excels in Mediterranean-style gardens, dry slopes, rock walls, and permaculture herb spirals. It demands well-drained soil and full sun and will decline in overly rich or moist conditions.

• Not Recommended for Culinary Use
  While technically edible, the higher camphor content of 'Provence' makes it less suitable for teas or baked goods. Culinary herbalists should opt for 'Munstead' instead, which has a milder, sweeter profile.

• Attracts Pollinators on a Grand Scale
  Bees and butterflies flock to its abundant mid- to late-season blooms, making it an excellent addition to pollinator strips, regenerative farm edges, or large-format herbal meadows.

Product Details

• Native range: Hybrid of Mediterranean species (L. angustifolia × L. latifolia)

• Plant life cycle: Perennial (semi-woody subshrub)

• Sun requirements: Full sun

• Soil requirements: Dry to medium-dry, extremely well-drained; alkaline or sandy soils preferred

• Mature height: 24-36 inches

• Bloom time: July to August

• Bloom color: Soft lavender to pale purple

• USDA Hardiness zones: 5-9

Choose Provence for: tall stems, high oil yield, and large-scale crafting or herbal use in hot, dry gardens.