LAVENDER AVONVIEW - THE PRESS PLANT OF THE MONTH SEPTEMBER 2009

This one, we can claim as our own, as Lavender Avonview is a New Zealand hybrid, released in 1992.  With a robust bushy habit, aromatic green-grey foliage and stunning purple flower bracts, this little exhibitionist will steal any show.  Its hardy nature produces masses of flowers in spring and summer, perfect for hedging, edging and containerizing.

From herb gardens, cottage gardens and courtyard pots to high country and coastal gardens, Lavender Avonview will perform with dignity.  Today lavender is as popular as ever and would have to be one of country's gardeners most successful and rewarding plants.

For a truly special performance, Lavender Avonview likes a sunny and well drained positioning and responds well to regular pruning.  Lavenders need pruning at least once a year to encourage new growth and flowers.  Ideally trim after each flower flush.  And for those of you who would like a little reminder of spring all year round, why not try making your own lavender bag with its dried flowers.  To dry the flowers, simply cut the lavender just before the flowers are in full bloom, hang up side down in a dark and airy open space until dry.