Lavender Stoechas Avonview

• Native to the Mediterranean region, Lavender Stoechas varieties have been cultivated for centuries for their ornamental and aromatic qualities.
• Avonview produces distinctive butterfly-like bracts above purple flower spikes, creating a unique topped appearance unlike English lavender varieties.
• Forms a neat, rounded shrub reaching moderate size, making it perfect for formal garden designs and container cultivation.
• Beloved by gardeners for its long flowering season, intense fragrance, and ability to thrive in challenging dry conditions with minimal care.

• Water weekly during establishment, then reduce to fortnightly in summer and monthly in winter once roots develop.
• Position in full sun with morning sun essential - avoid shaded locations that reduce flowering and increase disease risk.
• Plant in well-draining sandy loam or add coarse sand and gravel to heavy soils for optimal root health.
• Feed with low-nitrogen fertiliser in spring, avoiding high-phosphorus feeds that can damage root systems in Australian soils.
• Prune spent flowers regularly and shape lightly in late summer to prevent woody growth and maintain compact form.
• Mulch lightly with gravel or stones rather than organic mulch to prevent stem rot in humid conditions.
• Protect from strong winds in exposed positions and ensure good air movement to prevent fungal issues.

• Plant in full sun locations receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and fragrance development.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings - typically weekly in summer, less in cooler months.
• Provide excellent drainage in sandy or gravelly soil, avoiding heavy clay that retains moisture around roots.
• Maintain low humidity around foliage by spacing plants adequately and avoiding overhead irrigation systems.
• Prune lightly after flowering in late summer to maintain compact shape and encourage fresh growth for next season.

• Root rot from overwatering in heavy soils - ensure excellent drainage and reduce watering frequency. Plant in raised beds or add coarse sand to improve soil structure.
• Aphids clustering on new growth and flower buds - spray with insecticidal soap or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds. Remove affected shoots if infestation is severe.
• Fungal diseases in humid conditions causing grey mould on leaves - improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Prune out affected areas immediately.
• Spittlebug creating white foam on stems - wash off with strong water spray or remove by hand. This pest rarely causes serious damage to established plants.