June brings long sunny days, buzzing pollinators, and gardens filled with colour—and few plants capture this season’s spirit better than lavender. Known for its soothing fragrance and stunning purple blooms, lavender (Lavandula spp.) is a classic Mediterranean herb that thrives in summer heat and sunlight.

At Planteka, we highlight a different plant each month to help you learn, grow, and connect more deeply with the world of plants. In May, we explored the cheerful daffodil. This June, we turn to lavender—a sun-loving perennial that’s as practical as it is beautiful.

A little history

Native to the dry, rocky hillsides of the Mediterranean, lavender has been valued for over 2,500 years. The ancient Romans used it in baths and perfumes. In Provence, it lines endless fields in summer. In herbal medicine, it’s long been a symbol of calm, sleep, and healing.

Its name comes from the Latin lavare, meaning “to wash”—a nod to its historical use in bathing rituals.

Characteristics

• Botanical name: Lavandula spp.
• Common types: English lavender (L. angustifolia), French lavender (L. dentata), Spanish lavender (L. stoechas)
• Type: Perennial herb
• Height: 30–90 cm depending on variety
• Bloom time: Late spring to summer (June is peak season)
• Scent: Sweet, herbal, calming
• Toxicity: Safe for humans, but can be mildly toxic to pets if ingested in large quantities

How to grow lavender at home?

Lavender is low-maintenance if you meet its basic needs: light, drainage, and air. Here’s how to keep it thriving.

☀️ Light

• Outdoors: Full sun (6+ hours a day)
• Indoors: Brightest spot possible—ideally a south-facing window or under a grow light

💧 Watering

• Water when the top of the soil feels dry
• Be careful not to overwater—lavender hates soggy roots
• In containers, always use pots with drainage holes

🌱 Soil

• Well-draining is a must—mix in sand or perlite
• Avoid peat-based mixes, which hold too much water
• pH: neutral to slightly alkaline

🌡️ Temperature & humidity

• Prefers warm, dry conditions
• Ideal temp: 18–24°C (65–75°F)
• Ensure good airflow to prevent mildew indoors

✂️ Pruning

• After flowering, trim spent blooms and shape the plant
• Don’t cut into woody stems—this can damage the plant

Benefits & uses

• Pollinator magnet: Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects
• Aromatherapy: Its oil is known to reduce stress and improve sleep
• Culinary: Edible in small quantities—use in teas, cakes, or lemonade
• Decor: Dried lavender keeps its fragrance and colour for months

Can I grow lavender on a balcony?

Yes! Lavender is ideal for urban gardeners:

• Use large, well-draining pots (clay is ideal)
• Place in full sun—lavender loves the heat
• Water deeply, but less frequently

💡 Combine it with rosemary or thyme for a Mediterranean herb corner that smells amazing and thrives on neglect.

Common problems and how to fix them

• Wilting or root rot? → Too much water. Let it dry out.
• Floppy growth? → Not enough sun. Move it to a brighter spot.
• No blooms? → May need pruning or more sunlight.
• White powder on leaves? → Improve airflow; avoid misting.

Styling ideas

• Line walkways or garden borders for scent + colour
• Place in rustic terra cotta pots for a Provençal vibe
• Mix with ornamental grasses for soft movement
• Use dried lavender in bouquets, drawer sachets, or as natural décor

Lavender is a plant that gives more than it asks for. With just a bit of sun, space, and proper care, it will reward you with months of colour, calming scent, and pollinator joy. It’s the perfect plant for June—and a timeless favourite for gardeners everywhere.

Need help growing lavender?

At Planteka, we help people connect with plants and build confidence through hands-on workshops, expert consultations, and friendly, practical advice.

If you’re unsure how to care for lavender—or any plant—our Plant Doctor service is here to help you troubleshoot light, watering, and more.

💬 Book a one-on-one online consultation and let us help you make your plants thrive.

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