How to Grow Lavandula Phenomenal

Lavandula Phenomenal

Lavandula × intermedia 'Phenomenal'

shrub

Lavandula Phenomenal is a hybrid lavender cultivar known for its exceptionally large, vibrant purple flower spikes and vigorous growth habit. This ornamental shrub produces fragrant blooms throughout the growing season and is highly attractive to pollinators. It combines the hardiness of English lavender with superior flower production and longer blooming periods.

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Example Lavandula Phenomenal timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

  1. Plant Lavandula Phenomenal

    Around Apr 17

    Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.

  2. Tend & protect

    Late spring–summer

    Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.

  3. Harvest Lavandula Phenomenal

    Around Oct 14

    ≈ 180 days after planting

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Lavandula Phenomenal dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

☀️
Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily (8+ hours preferred for best flowering)
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Water: Drought-tolerant once established. Water moderately during growing season; allow soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid overwatering, which causes root rot.
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Spacing: 24 inches
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Days to maturity: 180-240 days to full flowering (acts as a perennial shrub)
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Planting depth: Plant transplants at the same depth as their nursery container; seeds should be surface-sown or just barely covered

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or gravelly loam soil
pH: 6.5-7.5
Amendments:
Coarse sand or perlite for drainage enhancement Gravel or pumice mulch Avoid heavy organic matter; use sparingly if needed

Growing Zones

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Thrives in zones 5-9, with best performance in zones 6-8

5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b

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Growth Stages

1

Seedling/Establishment

4-8 weeks

Young plants develop initial leafy growth with gray-green foliage and establish root systems

Keep soil slightly moist but well-draining. Protect from extreme heat and cold. Thin seedlings to proper spacing early.

2

Vegetative Growth

8-12 weeks

Plant develops dense, bushy foliage with aromatic gray-green needle-like leaves reaching 12-18 inches tall

Establish deep watering schedule to promote strong root development. Pinch back growing tips early to encourage bushiness. Minimal fertilizer needed.

3

Flowering (Primary)

6-8 weeks (summer through early fall)

Large, showy deep purple flower spikes (8-10+ inches long) emerge above foliage, attracting numerous pollinators

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer. Ensure adequate water during peak bloom.

4

Secondary Flowering

4-6 weeks

Phenomenal often produces a second flush of flowers in late summer to fall if properly maintained

Continue deadheading. Light pruning after first flush can stimulate reblooming. Maintain consistent watering.

5

Dormancy/Winter

3-4 months

Plant enters semi-dormancy with reduced growth; foliage persists but flowering ceases

Reduce watering significantly. Do not fertilize. Avoid heavy pruning; do major cuts in early spring. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot during wet winters.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Avoid planting near:

Heavy-feeding plants (tomatoes, squash) Plants requiring frequent watering (hydrangeas, ferns) Nitrogen-fixing legumes in close proximity Plants with invasive root systems

Common Pests

  • Increase humidity, spray with water, use neem oil or sulfur dusts if severe

  • Hand-pick beetles, remove affected flower buds, apply spinosad if infestation is heavy

  • Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, apply sulfur or horticultural oil; typically not severe on Phenomenal

  • Ensure excellent drainage, avoid waterlogging, plant in raised beds if needed, remove affected plants

Uses

🍳

Culinary Garnish & Flavoring

Culinary

Lavender flowers add a delicate floral flavor to desserts, beverages, and savory dishes. Buds and flowers can be crystallized for cake decorations or steeped into herbal teas and lemonades. [source]

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Fragrance & Aromatherapy

Household

Dried flowers and essential oil are prized for their calming aromatic properties. Use in sachets, potpourri, linen closets, or diffuse the essential oil for stress relief and relaxation. [source]

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Herbal Remedy & Skincare

Medicinal

Lavender is traditionally used for anxiety relief, sleep improvement, and minor wound healing. The essential oil and flower infusions are incorporated into teas, salves, and bath products. [source]

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Dried Flower Arrangements & Crafts

Craft

Phenomenal's large flower spikes are excellent for dried arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. The long stems dry beautifully and retain their color well. [source]

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Pollinator Support

Wildlife

Lavender is a premier nectar and pollen source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it essential for pollinator gardens and supporting local ecosystems. [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 the morning when fully open for fresh arrangements or drying. Leave at least 2-3 inches of stem with foliage on the plant. Harvest before flowers begin to fade for best color retention when drying. Hang bundles upside down in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks to dry completely.

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 Lavandula Phenomenal was developed by the Proven Winners brand and is known for producing some of the largest flower spikes in the lavender genus, often reaching 10+ inches in length.
  • 🌱 The name 'Phenomenal' refers to its exceptional reblooming ability—it can produce flowers continuously from early summer through fall if deadheaded regularly, giving it an exceptionally long ornamental season.
  • 🌱 Lavender's scientific name 'lavare' comes from the Latin word meaning 'to wash,' as Romans and Elizabethans used lavender extensively in bathing rituals and laundry.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

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