Lavender Cotton
Santolina incana
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Santolina incana is a compact, evergreen shrub with aromatic, silvery-gray foliage and small, button-like yellow flowers that bloom in summer, forming a dense, rounded habit. This species is valued for its drought tolerance and low maintenance, making it ideal for xeriscaping and aromatic herb gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in spring
- Water lightly until established, about 2 weeks
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
- Ensure full sun exposure throughout the year
- Mulch around base to retain moisture in hot months
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Use well-drained, sandy soil for best growth and minimal watering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly once established 🌱
- Prune after flowering to promote bushiness
- Apply well-balanced fertilizer in spring
- Ensure full sun exposure
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy clay soils without amendments ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lavender Cotton questions
What zones can Lavender Cotton grow in?
Lavender Cotton 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 Lavender Cotton deer resistant?
Yes — Lavender Cotton is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lavender Cotton bloom?
Lavender Cotton typically blooms in mid-summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Lavender Cotton need full sun?
Lavender Cotton does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Lavender Cotton drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lavender Cotton handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Lavender Cotton 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.
