Plant Library
Lavender Care Guide
Lavandula angustifolia
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
Lavender is a sun-loving garden herb. It can be grown in a very sunny window for a while, but it is happiest outdoors in a pot or bed with excellent drainage.
Plant profile
- Light
- Full sun: 6+ hours
- Water
- When the soil is dry 1-2 in down; never soggy
- Humidity
- Low
- Pets
- Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Size
- 1-3 ft
- Growth
- Moderate
Light
Full sun: 6+ hours. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
When the soil is dry 1-2 in down; never soggy. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: low. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with extra grit or perlite. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Indoors, give it your sunniest window and a terracotta pot; lack of light, not water, is what usually kills indoor lavender.
Common problems
- Gray, leggy growth: Not enough sun.
- Wilting with wet soil: Root rot; lavender needs sharp drainage.
- Few flowers: Too little light.
Pets
Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. If a pet chews it and shows symptoms, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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