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Growth Rate
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– Moderate growth rate
– Reaches mature size within 2–3 years
– Height: 10–14 inches
– Spread: 12–24 inches
– Forms a compact, upright mound with dense foliage |
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Colorful leaves
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Flowering
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Yes |
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Bloom Color
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Disease resistant
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Yes |
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Cold Tolerant
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Yes |
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Heat Tolerant
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Yes |
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Drought Tolerant
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Yes |
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Deer Resistant
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Yes |
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Edible
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No |
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Wildlife Attraction
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– Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
– Foliage is deer and rabbit resistant, making it suitable for areas with wildlife pressure |
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Self-pollinating
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Seasonality
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– Evergreen foliage provides year-round interest in suitable climates
– Primary bloom in early spring; potential for continuous blooming with proper pruning
– Foliage may turn coppery-bronze in fall, adding seasonal color |
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Ideal For
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- – Continuous bloom borders
– Containers and edging
– Scented gardens
– Pollinator-friendly spaces
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Leaf Description
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– Narrow, gray-green leaves with a fine texture
– Aromatic foliage releases a pleasant scent when brushed or crushed
– Evergreen in mild climates; semi-evergreen to deciduous in colder regions |
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Flower Description
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– Spikes of dark purple to blackberry-purple flowers on sturdy stems
– Bloom time: Early spring through fall, with potential for continuous blooming
– Flowers are suitable for cutting and drying, retaining color and fragrance |
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Planting Instructions
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– Plant in spring or early fall to allow roots to establish before extreme temperatures
– Choose a location with full sun exposure; at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily
– Prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils with a pH around 7; amend clay soils to improve drainage
– Space plants 12–24 inches apart to accommodate mature spread
– Mulch lightly with gravel or coarse sand to improve drainage and prevent root rot |
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Pruning & Maintenance
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– Lightly prune after the first bloom to encourage a second flowering and maintain shape
– In early spring, perform a more thorough pruning to remove woody stems and promote vigorous new growth
– Avoid cutting into old wood, as it may not produce new shoots |
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Water Needs
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– Requires regular watering during establishment
– Once established, drought-tolerant; water deeply but infrequently
– Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot |
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Light Needs
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– Thrives in full sun
– Insufficient sunlight may lead to reduced blooming and leggy growth |
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Harvesting
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– Harvest flower spikes when the lowest florets begin to open for optimal fragrance and longevity
– Cut stems in the morning after dew has dried
– Dry bundles in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area to preserve color and scent |
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Fertilizing
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– Apply a light application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
– Excessive fertilization can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms
– Incorporate organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility |
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Pollination
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– Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its fragrant, nectar-rich flowers
– Enhances biodiversity in the garden and supports pollinator populations |
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Companion Plants
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– Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) for similar cultural requirements and complementary foliage
– Sage (Salvia officinalis) for contrasting leaf texture and color
– Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) for its drought tolerance and extended bloom period
– Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) for attracting pollinators and adding vertical interest
– Ornamental grasses like Festuca glauca for texture contrast and movement |
