Lavandula X Intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ (Lavender)

/ Garden, Lamiaceae, Lavandula, Plants / By hometuary

Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ (Lavender): A Guide to Cultivation, Care, and Benefits

What is Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’?

Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’, commonly known as “Phenomenal Lavender,” is a hybrid variety of lavender that is prized for its exceptional fragrance, vibrant purple flowers, and versatility in various settings. Lavender, a member of the mint family Lamiaceae, is renowned for its aromatic foliage and beautiful floral spikes, making it a favorite in gardens, landscapes, and even culinary and wellness applications.

As a plant scientist, it’s fascinating to explore the unique characteristics, cultivation methods, and the myriad benefits associated with Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’. Throughout this extensive guide, we will delve into the culture, uses, maintenance, and interesting facets of this remarkable lavender variety.

Key Takeaways

Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ (Lavender)

Common Name: Phenomenal Lavender

Scientific Name: Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennial
Hardiness Zones: 5-9

Mature Height: 24-30 inches
Mature Spread: 24-36 inches
Foliage: Gray-green, aromatic

Flowers: Purple, highly fragrant

Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ Characteristics

Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ exhibits several notable characteristics that make it a sought-after addition to gardens and landscapes. These include:

Tolerant to heat and humidity

Exceptional cold hardiness
Highly fragrant flowers and foliage
Drought-tolerant once established

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies
Suitable for both formal and informal garden designs

With these impressive attributes, Phenomenal Lavender offers a host of benefits to gardeners, landscapers, and even those looking to explore its uses beyond ornamental cultivation.

Culture

Uses

Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ is a versatile plant with a rich history of varied uses. Traditionally, lavender has been valued for its:

Aromatic appeal: Often used in potpourri and sachets for its pleasant scent.
Culinary applications: Lavender’s flowers and leaves can be used to infuse teas, flavor baked goods, and enhance savory dishes.

Medicinal properties: It has been used in herbal medicine for its soothing and relaxing properties.

Beyond these traditional uses, modern enthusiasts have found valuable applications for Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ in essential oil production, as a natural insect repellent, and as a decorative addition to floral arrangements and crafts.

Water

When it comes to watering Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’, it’s crucial to strike a balance. While these lavenders are known for their drought-tolerance, especially once established, they still require regular watering during their establishment period. Once the plants have developed a robust root system, they are generally tolerant of dry conditions.

Watering Frequency: Water newly planted Phenomenal Lavender 2-3 times per week during the first growing season. Once established, reduce watering to once every 1-2 weeks, depending on the local climate and soil conditions.
Watering Method: Water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage to prevent issues such as crown and root rot.

Sunlight

One of the key factors contributing to the success of Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ is ample sunlight. As a Mediterranean plant, lavender thrives in full sunlight and requires a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.

Sun Exposure: Choose a planting location that receives full sun throughout the day.
Soil Temperature: Ensure that the soil temperature remains warm, as lavender plants are sensitive to cold and damp conditions.

Fertilizer

Lavenders, including Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’, generally thrive in lean, well-draining soil. Excess fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production and may compromise the plant’s overall hardiness.

Fertilizer Type: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer sparingly in the spring, after the last frost date.
Fertilizer Ratio: Look for a fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of around 5-10-10 or similar, to provide essential nutrients without promoting excessive vegetative growth.

Soil

Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ thrives in well-draining, slightly alkaline to neutral soil.

Soil Type: Sandy or gravelly soils are ideal, ensuring that water does not stagnate around the roots.
Soil pH: Aim for a pH range between 6.7 and 7.3 for optimal growth.

Pruning

Pruning is an essential aspect of maintaining the health and appearance of Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’. Proper pruning not only encourages a compact and bushy form but also promotes increased flowering.

Timing: Prune Phenomenal Lavender in early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems from winter and to shape the plant for the upcoming growing season.
Pruning Technique: Use clean, sharp pruning shears to trim the plants back by one-third, cutting just above a set of leaves.

Propagation

Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ can be propagated through several methods, including:

Seeds: While viable lavender seeds can be collected from mature flowers, propagation through seeds may result in some variability in terms of characteristics and fragrance.
Cuttings: Propagation through softwood or hardwood cuttings is a common and reliable method to produce true-to-type plants.

Container Popularity

The compact size and adaptability of Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ make it a popular choice for container gardening. Whether placed on patios, balconies, or garden beds, these lavenders thrive in containers with proper care and maintenance.

Container Selection: Choose a well-draining container that is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system, with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Mix: Use a well-aerated, sandy potting mix with added perlite for improved drainage and moisture retention.

Common Diseases

Lavenders, including Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’, are relatively resistant to many common diseases. However, certain environmental conditions, such as excessive moisture and poor air circulation, can predispose them to issues like:

Root Rot: Caused by waterlogged, poorly drained soil.
Fungal Diseases: Including powdery mildew and downy mildew, which thrive in humid conditions.

Disease Diagnosis

Diagnosing plant diseases can often be challenging, as many symptoms may overlap. However, careful observation and timely intervention can help prevent the spread of diseases and minimize their impact on the plants.

Symptoms: Look for signs of wilting, yellowing, or spotted foliage, as well as any powdery growth or mildew-like coatings on the leaves.
Diagnosis: Consulting with local plant disease specialists or submitting samples to diagnostic laboratories can provide accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment recommendations.

Common Pests

Lavenders, including Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’, are relatively resistant to pests due to their aromatic foliage. However, they may occasionally attract:

Aphids: These tiny, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can be controlled through physical removal, insecticidal soaps, or natural predators like ladybugs.
Spider Mites: These arachnids cause stippling and webbing on the foliage and can be mitigated through regular, gentle spraying with water and the introduction of predatory mites.

Botanist’s Tips

As a plant scientist, I have discovered some valuable tips for cultivating and caring for Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’, including:

Focus on Soil Health: Prioritize well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Prune Regularly: Regular pruning encourages a bushy, compact growth habit and promotes flowering.
Monitor Watering: Establish a watering routine based on the plant’s growth stage and local weather conditions to prevent issues related to both overwatering and underwatering.

Fun Facts

Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ is not only a versatile and visually appealing plant but also has several intriguing facets that allow it to stand out in the botanical world:

Heritage: Lavandula x intermedia is a naturally occurring hybrid between Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia, resulting in the robust and resilient ‘Phenomenal’ variety.
Historical Significance: Lavender has been utilized for centuries, with a rich legacy in traditional medicine, perfumery, and religious rituals.

Wellness Benefits: The calming and soothing properties of lavender have made it a staple in aromatherapy and relaxation practices, promoting emotional well-being.

Links to External Resources

For further exploration of Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ and related topics, the following external resources offer valuable insights:

Lavender: Planting, Growing, and Harvesting

In conclusion, delving into the exquisite world of Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ reveals a plant with a myriad of uses, exceptional characteristics, and a rich history. Its adaptability to various growing conditions, coupled with its multitude of benefits, makes it a treasure for gardeners, herbalists, and plant enthusiasts alike. By embracing the best practices for cultivation and care, we can fully appreciate the allure and magic of this extraordinary lavender variety.

References:

Gómez Jiménez, M.C., Celis, A.A. (2021). Short-cycle cultivation of lavender (Lavandula intermedia) as a medicinal plant in the Eje Cafetero, Colombia. Tropical and Subtropical Agroecosystems, 24(2), 227-234.
Gómez Jiménez, M.C., Castillo Ortiz, C.M., & Arteaga Rodríguez, M.N. (2021). Distillation of essential oils from short-cycled lavender (Lavandula intermedia) in the Eje Cafetero, Colombia. Revista de Ciencias Agropecuarias, 3(3), 3-10.

Vázquez-Duhalt, R., García-Tejeda, Y., Velasco-Loyden, G., Rodríguez-Silva, A., & López-Martínez, L. X. (2021). Biodegradation of lignocellulosic agro-industrial residues using adapted white-rot and cellulolytic fungi to obtain volatile and terpene compounds. International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 167, 105291.