Developed at Hillier Nurseries and exclusively launched this spring, Lavandula x intermedia ‘Exceptional’ (hillav) is the ideal, easy-to-grow, drought tolerant plant for the garden. ‘Exceptional’ has wonderful silver foliage on long stems that are brilliant for cutting and a rich aroma that attracts bees and butterflies alike.
This unique hybrid is particularly hardy and holds its bright silver foliage, making it attractive all winter.
View our collection of plantsLavandula x intermedia ‘Exceptional’ Fact File
Flowering time: May – October
Sun requirements: Full sun
Soil: Free-draining/thriving in poor soils
Size: 80cm x 80cm
Growing Guide
Planting
Lavender is best planted in the spring. This allows the plant to make the most of the soil as it is beginning to warm up. For the happiest lavenders, make sure that you plant them in free-draining, poor or moderately fertile, alkaline or chalky soil.
If you have heavier soil but are desperate to have lavender in your garden, add some organic matter before you plant it to improve the drainage.
Pruning
It is important to prune lavender after flowering. Cut it back just below the flower stem but not so far as the bare wood. In order to maintain a compact shape, it must be pruned every year. While lavender is simple to grow and maintain, it is difficult to rejuvenate once it becomes old and woody, so it is best to replace it.
If growing in pots, add some coarse grit for improved drainage.
Watering
Like the majority of lavender varieties, ‘Exceptional’ does not require as much water as other plants. Once your plant is fully established, it can survive being watered only once every two weeks.
If your lavender isn’t yet fully established, water once every 2-3 days after planting during the first week and then every 3-4 days during the month after planting.
Lavandula x intermedia ‘Exceptional’ Planting Ideas
With its prolific flowering and strong upright stems bearing pure white flowers, it makes an ideal addition to your garden as a low hedge, in a mixed border, or in a patio container, complementing Echinacea and Alliums with colour and height.
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