shrub

Fathead Spanish Lavender

Lavandula stoechas 'Fathead'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lavandula stoechas 'Fathead' is a compact cultivar known for its unique flower spikes and aromatic leaves.

This cultivar has a unique, densely packed flower head that is larger than many other Lavandula stoechas varieties.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesLavandula stoechas Fathead adds striking purple blooms and aromatic foliage, perfect for borders and containers.
Practical UsesIts fragrant flowers are used in potpourri and for essential oils.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting pollinator health.
SpeciesLavandula stoechasSpanish Lavender

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early summer – Late summer

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
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In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
  3. Plant in full sun on a dry, sandy soil to mimic native conditions.
  4. Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry between waterings.
  5. Fertilize lightly with a low-nitrogen fertilizer during active growth.
  6. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy soil and full sun for vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
  • Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushiness ✂️
  • Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot
  • Water infrequently once established

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering; lavender hates soggy soil ❌
  • Don’t fertilize with high-nitrogen fertilizers which promote soft growth
  • Never prune in late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Harvest
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Aromatic herb borderDry rock garden accentScented pathway edging

Companion Plants

Rosemary SageThyme SedumEchinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fathead Spanish Lavender questions

What zones can Fathead Spanish Lavender grow in?

Fathead Spanish Lavender is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Fathead Spanish Lavender deer resistant?

Yes — Fathead Spanish Lavender is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Fathead Spanish Lavender bloom?

Fathead Spanish Lavender typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Fathead Spanish Lavender need full sun?

Fathead Spanish Lavender does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Fathead Spanish Lavender drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fathead Spanish Lavender handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Fathead Spanish Lavender with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.