Sea lavender is a clump-forming perennial that transforms summer gardens with airy clouds of lavender-blue flowers rising from bold, leathery foliage. Growing 24 to 30 inches tall and equally wide, this hardy perennial thrives in zones 3 through 9 and handles drought with remarkable ease, making it a low-maintenance addition to any garden. The tiny flowers bloom from July through August on long, wiry, nearly leafless stems that seem to float above the plant's sprawling basal rosette of oblong leaves. Both fresh and dried, these flowers are exceptional; they retain their color and delicate structure beautifully, earning sea lavender a cherished place in bouquets and arrangements that can last for months.
Full Sun
Moderate
3-9
30in H x 30in W
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Low
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The defining feature of sea lavender is its cloud-like profusion of tiny, lavender-blue flowers that seem to shimmer on impossibly thin stems. These blooms are genuinely exceptional as cut and dried flowers, holding their color and form far longer than most garden flowers. Its remarkable drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, shallow, rocky soil means you can plant it in challenging spots where other perennials struggle. The plant also has a naturally graceful, airy appearance that adds movement and texture to the garden without requiring any fussing.
Sea lavender excels as a fresh cut flower and dries exceptionally well for long-lasting arrangements. The airy stems work beautifully in mixed bouquets, where they add lightness and texture without competing with larger flowers. Dried sea lavender retains its soft lavender color remarkably well, making it popular in dried arrangements, wreaths, and pressed-flower crafts that can be enjoyed year-round.
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Cut sea lavender flowers for fresh arrangements once the blooms have fully opened and the stems are sturdy, typically in mid to late summer during peak bloom in July and August. For drying, harvest the stems when most flowers on the stem have opened but before they begin to fade. Cut stems close to the base, gather them into loose bundles, and hang them upside down in a warm, airy location away from direct sunlight for 2 to 3 weeks until completely dry. Dried flowers maintain their color and structure for months or even years when stored in a cool, dry place.
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