Lavender
Lavandula spp.
Lavender
Lavandula spp.
Fragrant Mediterranean herb with silvery foliage and purple flower spikes. Best outdoors but can grow indoors with enough light.
About Lavender
Native to the Mediterranean region, lavender is beloved for its intensely fragrant purple flowers and silvery foliage. It thrives in full sun with excellent drainage and is challenging indoors due to high light requirements but succeeds with the right conditions.
High Light
Needs maximum light—at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Grow lights can supplement in winter.
Ideal window: South-facing windows are essential. Lavender needs the maximum light your home can offer. Consider supplementing with grow lights in winter.
Note: Window direction recommendations are based on the Northern Hemisphere.
Lavender is difficult to grow indoors long-term. Consider it a seasonal houseplant, giving it outdoor time in summer or replacing annually.
Low — Every 1-2 weeks
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Lavender hates wet feet—well-draining soil is essential. Water less in winter.
Prefers dry conditions. Humidity promotes fungal diseases. Good air circulation is important.
Cool Tolerant — 45-75°F
Comfortable at 45-75°F (7-24°C). Tolerates heat well but dislikes stagnant, humid conditions.
Leggy, sparse growth
Insufficient light—the most common indoor problem. Provide maximum sun.
Yellow leaves or root rot
Overwatering or poor drainage. Reduce watering and ensure fast-draining soil.
No flowers
Needs more light and may need cool winter rest period.
Lavender adds fragrance and cottage charm. Display in sunny windows, preferably in terracotta pots for better drainage. Harvest flowers for sachets and arrangements.
Bottom Watering Compatibility
Lavender prefers to dry out between waterings. Water sparingly.