How to Grow Imp Lavender
Imp Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia 'Imp'
shrubImp Lavender is a compact cultivar of English lavender, known for its deep purple flowers and dwarf growth habit. This woody perennial shrub produces aromatic foliage and is ideal for containers, borders, and small garden spaces. It blooms prolifically throughout the growing season with fragrant spikes attractive to pollinators.
When should you plant Imp Lavender in your zone?
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Example Imp Lavender timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Imp Lavender
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Imp Lavender
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Imp Lavender dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9, prefers cooler climates with good drainage
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Get my Imp Lavender timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-4 weeksSmall plants with soft, narrow gray-green leaves and minimal branching
Provide bright light and excellent drainage. Keep soil lightly moist but not wet. Avoid fungal issues by ensuring air circulation.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant develops dense, compact mounding form with aromatic foliage; no flowers yet
Maintain moderate watering as plant establishes. Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness. Full sun exposure is critical.
Flowering
6-12 weeks (main bloom); may rebloom with deadheadingTall purple flower spikes emerge from leaf axils; plant becomes covered in blooms
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Maintain dry conditions around base. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer.
Summer Maintenance
4-8 weeksPlant enters semi-dormancy in heat; flowering may slow in peak heat
Reduce watering further in extreme heat. Provide afternoon shade in zones 9+. Avoid fertilizing.
Fall & Winter Dormancy
3-4 monthsFoliage persists but growth slows; plant hardens off for winter
Minimal watering. Light pruning in late fall to maintain shape. Mulch lightly in zone 5. No fertilizer.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe. Increase humidity slightly around foliage.
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Hand-pick beetles or use yellow sticky traps. Spinosad spray for heavy infestations.
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and
(Phytophthora, Botrytis)
Ensure excellent drainage; reduce watering. Remove affected plants. Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering.
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Spray with strong water stream or insecticidal soap. Ladybugs provide natural control.
Uses
Culinary flavoring & tea
CulinaryLavender flowers and buds add floral, slightly sweet flavor to baked goods, desserts, honey, and herbal teas. The culinary variety can infuse vinegars, oils, and syrups. [source]
Relaxation & sleep support
MedicinalLavender is traditionally used in aromatherapy for stress relief, anxiety, and sleep quality. Linalool and linalyl acetate compounds in the essential oil promote relaxation and calm. [source]
Natural fragrance & preservation
HouseholdDried lavender flowers freshen drawers, closets, and linen. They naturally repel moths and other insects while imparting a pleasant fragrance to stored items. [source]
Cut & dried flower arrangements
CraftLavender's long-lasting blooms and attractive purple color make it ideal for fresh bouquets, dried arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. [source]
Pollinator magnet
WildlifeAbundant nectar and pollen attract honeybees, bumblebees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it excellent for pollinator gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flower spikes in early morning when dew dries but before heat of day, just as flowers begin to open. Cut stems 8-10 inches long. Harvest when about half the flowers on the spike are open for best color and longevity. Dry by hanging upside-down in small bundles in a warm, dry, well-ventilated space for 1-2 weeks. For foliage harvesting, pinch tips throughout the season for fresh use.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Imp' refers to the dwarf, compact form of this cultivar—ideal for small spaces and containers, typically reaching only 12-18 inches tall and wide.
- 🌱 Lavender has been used for over 2,500 years, with evidence of its use in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome for bathing, perfume, and healing.
- 🌱 The essential oil in lavender foliage and flowers contains more than 150 chemical compounds, making it one of the most chemically complex plants used in aromatherapy and herbal medicine.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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