Velvet Lavender 'Richard Gray'

Lavandula x chaytorae 'Richard Gray' is a superb hybrid lavender, a cross between L. angustifolia and L. lanata, resulting in a plant that combines fragrance with exceptionally silvery, felted foliage. This cultivar forms a compact, neat mound of almost white leaves that look stunning year-round. In mid to late summer, it produces relatively short, dense spikes of deep violet-blue flowers that contrast vividly against the silver foliage. The leaves have a soft, velvety texture due to the fine hairs, which also provide increased drought resistance. In the UK garden, 'Richard Gray' is highly valued in gravel gardens or for low hedging. It requires full sun and excellent drainage; the hairy leaves can trap moisture, so a position with good air circulation is beneficial to prevent fungal issues. It is generally hardier than many other silver-leaved lavenders. Pruning should be done after flowering to maintain its tight, globular habit and prevent it from becoming woodier at the base.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, gritty soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug.