Lavandula 'Silver Anouk'

US Plant Patent #20,068. CPBRAF.

Small enough for containers, but with such a big impact that you'll be tempted to use it as groundcover, this evergreen Lavender is a must-have! The silvery foliage is very attention getting, being so pale and finely cut that it resembles Dusty Miller as much as Lavender. But the display doesn't stop there! The blooms are also distinctive: rather than small florets all along the bud, they produce only a tuft of larger purple florets at the top for a somewhat Seussical appearance.

These blooms come on heavily in their first flush, starting in mid spring. They rebloom for months from there, setting blooms faster if you deadhead them. All season the blooms grow close to the foliage rather than getting rangey.

Bred in the Netherlands, this cultivar is exceptionally cold hardy. And thanks to its compact habit, this versatile selection fits easily into containers, which means that it can be overwintered indoors to survive in even the most frigid climates.

Spanish Lavender is very forgiving because it has great drought tolerance and because pests like rabbits and deer tend to leave it alone. This delightfully aromatic plant is a great presence for any yard or garden because it attracts beneficial insects like butterflies, but repels flying pests like mosquitoes, moths, flies, and gnats.

'Silver Anouk' reaches 12 to 18 inches wide, with a dense, attractive habit that never looks rangy or tired. It is vigorous and easy to grow in any well-drained sunny spot. Great for hot, dry locations. Zones 6 to 10.