Lavandula x intermedia - Grosso

VERY FRAGRANT and the epitome of low maintenance, 'Grosso' is the darkest flowered and most potent French hybrid available and is grown in the perfume and cosmetic industry for its oils. Also known as "Lavandin", its strong fragrance makes it unsuitable for culinary purposes, but the exceptionally long stems are great for cutting and drying and they hold their scent, color and shape for a good long time. With a wealth of medicinal uses, it's a friendly plant to have around the garden and grows into a 3'x3' densely leafy dome, enduring poor soil, hot sun, deer and neglect. Cut back immediately after bloom is finished by no more than 1/3rd at the latest by first week in September, to maintain appearance for next season. Lavenders should be replaced periodically, say, every five years, as they are a short-lived perennial.