How to Grow Parfait Lavender
Parfait Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia 'Parfait'
shrubParfait Lavender is a compact, bicolor flowering lavender cultivar that produces striking two-toned blooms with purple and white striped florets. This ornamental shrub is prized for its fragrance, extended blooming season, and compact growth habit, making it ideal for borders, containers, and landscape accents. It combines the classic lavender appeal with unique visual interest from its variegated flowers.
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Example Parfait Lavender timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Parfait 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 Parfait Lavender
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Parfait Lavender dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9, with best performance in zones 6-8
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Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung plant focuses on root development; initial foliage is small and linear with minimal branching
Water regularly but allow soil to dry between waterings. Plant in spring after last frost. Avoid fertilizer, which promotes excessive soft growth. Mulch lightly with gravel if in humid region.
Vegetative Growth
6-10 weeksPlant develops dense branching structure and fine, needle-like gray-green foliage, forming a compact mound
Continue moderate watering during dry spells. Pinch growing tips in early season to encourage bushier form. Reduce watering as plant becomes established.
Budding & Early Bloom
2-3 weeksFlower buds form at stem tips; distinctive purple and white bicolor flower spikes begin to emerge
Maintain consistent watering but avoid wetting foliage. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. No fertilizer needed.
Peak Flowering
4-8 weeks (can repeat if deadheaded)Abundant bicolor purple and white striped flower spikes in full display; plant appears full and fragrant
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to extend bloom season. Avoid overhead watering. Enjoy fragrance and attractiveness to pollinators.
Dormancy & Maintenance Pruning
October-March (dormant period)Flowering slows in late season; plant prepares for winter rest with hardened foliage remaining evergreen
Prune in early spring (late March to early April) to remove dead wood and maintain compact shape—cut back by 1/3 to 1/2. Do not prune in fall. Reduce watering significantly.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Handpick adults early morning; use neem oil spray if population is heavy; remove infested stems
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; improve air circulation; use well-draining soil; remove affected plants if necessary
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Spray with strong water spray to dislodge; use miticide if severe; improve air circulation
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Prune out affected stems; ensure good air circulation; reduce overhead watering; apply fungicide if necessary
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators
Uses
Dried Flower Arrangements & Sachets
HouseholdParfait Lavender's distinctive bicolor blooms make striking dried arrangements and potpourri. Dried flowers fill sachets for drawers and closets, naturally repelling moths while providing long-lasting fragrance. [source]
Culinary Garnish & Flavoring
CulinaryFood-safe lavender flowers add floral notes to baked goods, beverages, honey, and desserts. The distinctive bicolor appearance provides visual interest to plated dishes and drinks. [source]
Herbal Tea & Relaxation
MedicinalLavender flowers are steeped for calming herbal tea that promotes relaxation and sleep. Linalool and other volatile compounds in lavender are known for their anxiolytic properties. [source]
Fragrant Crafts & Essential Oil
CraftDried Parfait Lavender flowers are used to create lavender wands, bundles, and craft projects. Essential oil distilled from flowers is used in aromatherapy, perfumery, and cosmetics. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeLavender is an exceptional nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. The abundant blooms over an extended season provide critical mid-to-late summer forage. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest flower spikes when 2/3 of the flowers on the spike are open. Cut stems in the morning after dew dries for best fragrance. Use sharp pruners to cut 1/3 down the stem. Dry flowers by hanging upside-down in bundles in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks. For dried arrangements, harvest before flowers fully open.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Parfait' references the bicolor striped flower pattern resembling the dessert parfait with its distinct layers of colors
- 🌱 Lavender has been cultivated for over 2,500 years and was prized by Romans for bathing and perfuming; the name comes from the Latin 'lavare' meaning 'to wash'
- 🌱 Parfait Lavender is more compact than many English lavender varieties, making it especially suitable for small gardens, containers, and ornamental displays
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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