Product Field NotesLavender Plants
Grosso Long Stem Lavender: A Grosso Selection for Bundles
Save
Grosso Long Stem lavender is a Grosso-type lavandin with a name that tells you what it is for. It forms a bushy, mounding plant about 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide with silver-green foliage, and its purple flowers open in late June and peak in mid-July. Its cut and dried ratings are both excellent, which makes it a natural for bundle makers.
The scent is strong and floral-herbal, sweet lavender with a clean, camphorous lift that comes through in sachets and dried decor.
Grosso Long Stem at a glance
| Trait | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Botanical name | Lavandula × intermedia 'Grosso Long Stem' |
| Parentage | L. angustifolia × L. latifolia |
| Flower color | Purple |
| Foliage | Silver-green |
| Mature size | About 36 inches tall and 36 inches wide |
| Bloom | Starts late June, peaks mid-July, single flush |
| Hardiness | USDA zones 5a to 8b |
| Cut and dried | Excellent for both |
A plant sized for a garden
At about 3 feet each way, Grosso Long Stem gives you lavandin's big harvest in a plant that still fits a home garden. Use it at the back of a border, as a single fragrant shrub near a patio, or in a short row dedicated to cutting. Check the listing for the current size details; lavandin size varies with soil and climate.
Bundling basics
- Timing: cut when the buds are fully colored and just the first few flowers are open, usually in early to mid-July. The Harvest Calendar helps you plan.
- Cut long: follow each stem down to just above the leafy growth.
- Bundle: gather a handful of stems, even the heads and wrap the base with a rubber band, which tightens as stems shrink.
- Dry: hang upside down in a dark, dry, airy place for one to two weeks.
- Finish: trim stem ends even and add ribbon or twine.
For fresh bouquets, cut a little earlier and put stems straight into cool water.
Growing it well
- Site: full sun and lean, fast-draining soil. Raised rows help on clay.
- Spacing: about 36 inches between plants.
- Water: deep watering through the first season; low needs afterward.
- Feeding: skip it. Rich soil gives soft, floppy stems, which is the opposite of what you want here.
- Winter: it needs a winter chill to flower; keep the crown dry and free of heavy mulch.
Pruning after harvest
Once the stems are cut, shear the whole plant into a rounded dome, leaving several inches of green above the woody base. Annual pruning keeps it compact and productive. Finish by early fall. The Pruning Calendar covers the details.
Plant sizes
Offered as 3-inch plugs, 4-inch pots and 1-gallon pots. See the product page for current sizes and availability.
Frequently asked questions
How does it compare with Grosso Fat Spike?
Both are Grosso-type lavandins with silver-green foliage and the same bloom timing. Grosso Long Stem is listed at about 3 feet wide, while Grosso Fat Spike can spread to about 5 feet.
Can I cook with it?
Lavandin rates good for culinary use, but it is more camphorous than English lavender. Use it sparingly.
Does it rebloom?
Rebloom is low. Expect one main July harvest.
Share how it went in your field