Bract Lavender

Lavandula stoechas (Lamiaceae) is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean Basin. It grows at a medium rate to 1 to 3 feet tall (occasionally taller), forming a compact mound of greyish, tomentose leaves (1 to 4 cm long). The distinctive flower heads carry prominent sterile bracts at their tips that resemble flags or butterfly wings, giving rise to the common name butterfly lavender. Flower color is typically purple to lavender.

Spanish lavender requires full sun and hot, dry conditions on well-drained soil (pH 6.0 to 8.0). It is more tender than common lavender, hardy only in Zones 8a to 9b, and more aggressive in its spread. It tolerates deer, drought, heat, and rabbits. Cultivars include 'Otto Quast' and 'Silver Anouk'. The species has been declared a noxious weed in parts of Australia since 1920, indicating its potential invasiveness where conditions favor it. It attracts bees and butterflies.