Imperial Gem is an English lavender valued for its tidy habit, rich color, and strong fragrance. It establishes a bit more slowly than some varieties, but the payoff is a neat, upright plant with gray-green foliage and deep violet flowers that stand out clearly in the garden.
The flower spikes are dense and compact, typically 1–2 inches long, and they hold their color exceptionally well when dried. This has made Imperial Gem a favorite for dried bouquets, sachets, and craft work. During the 2023 bloom season, it quickly became a customer favorite for its dependable performance, saturated color, and classic lavender scent.
It’s an excellent choice for gardeners who want lavender that stays well-behaved, doesn’t sprawl, and produces flowers that look just as good dried as they do fresh.
WHY GARDENERS LOVE IT
- Deep violet flowers with dark purple calyces
- Strong, classic lavender fragrance
- Compact, upright growth habit
- Excellent color retention when dried
- Reliable, consistent performer
HOW IT GROWS
- Plant type: Evergreen shrub
- Sun: Full sun
- Soil: Well-drained soil
- Water: Low once established
- Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–9
- Growth habit: Compact, upright
Full sun and good drainage support healthy growth and strong color.
SIZE & BLOOM
- Height × Width: ~2 ft. × 3 ft.
- Stem length: ~10–14 inches
- Flower color: Deep violet
- Calyx color: Dark purple
- Bloom time: Early summer
- Fragrance: Strong, classic lavender
PLANTING TIPS
- Choose a sunny planting location
- Avoid heavy or poorly drained soils
- Space plants to allow airflow
- Water regularly during the first growing season
BEST USES
- Dried bouquets
- Sachets and craft projects
- Fresh bouquets
- Garden borders
- Small-scale harvesting
HOW TO KNOW IT’S RIGHT FOR YOU
Choose Imperial Gem if you:
- Prefer deep purple lavender
- Want a tidy, upright plant
- Dry flowers regularly
- Enjoy strong lavender fragrance
