Lavandula stoechas 'Anouk' is a compact and early blooming Spanish lavender cultivar with rich purple bracts topped by distinctive rabbit ear petals. Its silvery green foliage is highly aromatic and evergreen in mild climates.
Height & Spread: 12 - 18 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Spring to early summer, with potential for rebloom
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, alkaline to neutral soil; avoid wet or compacted conditions
Watering Needs: Low; water sparingly once established
Deer Resistance: Deer avoid due to aromatic foliage and oils
Native Status
Lavandula stoechas is native to the Mediterranean region. Cultivated variety developed for compact habit and improved flowering, widely grown in temperate climates.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts honeybees and native solitary bees, especially in early spring when few other nectar sources are available.
Butterflies
- Draws small butterflies such as Painted Ladies and Cabbage Whites that visit regularly for nectar.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart in borders or massed for low hedging and edge definition.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for Mediterranean, drought tolerant, or sensory gardens where fragrance and form are desired. Works well in raised beds, containers, and sunny slopes.
Companion Plants
- Helianthemum nummularium (Rock Rose) - Offers low growing, sun loving color in dry conditions alongside lavender.
- Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) - Pairs beautifully in herb and fragrance gardens with similar sun and soil needs.
- Gaura lindheimeri (White Gaura) - Adds airy texture and continuous bloom that complements lavender’s structure.
- Salvia officinalis (Culinary Sage) - Matches in scent and silvery texture for an ornamental and edible combination.
- Achillea 'Moonshine' - Offers soft yellow blooms that contrast well with lavender’s purple tones and attracts similar pollinators.