Bella Purple Italian Lavender

Bella Purple Italian Lavender (Lavandula stoechas 'Bella Purple') is a compact lavender, around 50cm high and wide, with deep purple flowers and matching dark purple tufts. It was bred in Australia for bushy growth and a long season of colour, which runs from autumn to spring in milder climates. Dark and dense, it is the classic lavender look in a small package.

Why you'll love it

• One rich colour. Deep purple flowers with dark purple tufts give a solid, saturated tone rather than a two tone effect.
• Bushy and compact. The dense habit makes a neat mound at about 50cm, which suits pots and tight beds.
• Flowers for months. In milder climates the display runs from autumn to spring.
• Built for sun and dry spells. Heat and dry weather suit it, and it should survive a light overnight frost once established.
• For wildlife and the vase. Bees and butterflies visit the fragrant flowers, and cut stems dry well for arrangements.

Where it works best

Silver and gold plantings. The dark flowers look best beside silver foliage or lime and yellow plants, which make the purple look deeper.

Edging and low hedges. Plant 40cm apart in a single row for a continuous purple band that stays below knee height.

Pots. A matched set of pots gives a formal courtyard look, with the dark flowers set off by pale terracotta or concrete.

Growing Bella Purple Italian Lavender in Australia

Position and climate. A sunny, free draining spot suits it. It copes with heat and dry conditions, does well in cool dry climates, and should survive a light overnight frost once established. In part shade it grows, but flowers are reduced.

Soil. Avoid wet feet. Plant on a slight mound in clay, or grow it in a container with a gritty mix so the roots never sit wet.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly for the first 12 weeks, then ease off. Lavender flowers best on lean soil, so a light annual feed with a slow release fertiliser after flowering is all it needs.

Pruning. Prune twice a year, taking about a third of the foliage and staying out of old wood. Prune before it goes woody, since old stems will not reshoot.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Bella Purple Italian Lavender as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Tube stock is the cost effective way to plant a row, and it settles in quickly in warm weather. Plants this size handle freight well, so unpack them promptly and keep them watered until they go in the ground. Expect a small, leafy plant that flowers more heavily as it grows.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• See the whole lavender range
• Lavender care guide for Australian gardens
• Plants for rockeries
• Drought tolerant plants

Common questions

What colour are the flowers?

Deep purple, with dark purple tufts on top. Unlike some Bella lavenders the tufts do not lighten, so the whole flower head reads as one dark tone.

How long does a lavender plant last?

In a suitable climate, expect about five to eight years from an Italian type. When it becomes woody and open, take cuttings in autumn and replace it rather than cutting it back hard.

Does it need much feeding?

Very little. Rich soil and heavy feeding give soft growth, fewer flowers and weaker scent, so one light application after flowering is plenty.

Is it safe for pets?

Not entirely. Lavender can upset a dog's or cat's stomach if a good amount is eaten, so we do not class it as pet friendly. It is best kept away from pets that chew.