Nine Flowering Plants That Share a Similar Aesthetic to Lavender
For those seeking to add a touch of lavender charm to their gardens but require plants that thrive in varying conditions, we have compiled a list of lavender look-alikes that cater to specific growing requirements.
Russian Sage (Salvia yangii)
Russian sage closely resembles lavender with finely divided silvery leaves and purple flower spikes. This plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for sunny gardens. Its tall multi-branched flower panicles are larger and more showy than lavender spikes, providing a striking display.
Mexican Bush Sage (S. leucantha)
Mexican bush sage is another lavender look-alike that tolerates some afternoon shade and performs well in slightly shadier and wetter conditions than lavender. It prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil and offers an eye-catching bicolor effect with its purple calyces and white corollas.
Spanish Sage (S. lavandulifolia)
Spanish sage resembles lavender and typically grows in full sun, making it a suitable alternative for those seeking a lavender-like plant that thrives in similar conditions. It grows to just one and a half feet tall and wide, with narrow, gray-green foliage very closely resembling lavender.
Catmint (Nepeta spp.)
Catmint bears bluish-lavender flowers with silvery foliage and adapts well to varied garden conditions. While not explicitly noted for shade or wetness tolerance, it is known for its showy blooms attracting pollinators.
Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)
Hyssop is a short-lived, semi-evergreen perennial that grows to a similar size as most lavenders, with spikes of purple to blue, fragrant flowers blooming throughout the summer above narrow, dark green, shiny leaves.
Other plants that share a visual affinity with lavender include Marsh Blazing Star, Rosemary, Anise Hyssop, and Spiked Speedwell. Each of these plants has unique characteristics that make them suitable for different growing conditions, ensuring there is a lavender look-alike for every garden.
In summary, gardeners can now select plants with lavender's aesthetic that better fit specific growing conditions like shade or wetter soils, or with more striking floral displays. This diverse range of plants allows for a lavender-inspired garden that is both beautiful and resilient.
References
- Gardening Know How
- The Spruce
- Organic gardening enthusiasts can opt for perennials like Catmint, Russian Sage, Mexican Bush Sage, or Spanish Sage to bring a lavender-like charm to their home-and-garden lifestyle.
- While planting Russian Sage, ensure the soil is well-drained and the location is sunny for the best results.
- Hyssop, with its purple to blue fragrant flowers and narrow dark green leaves, is another organic option for gardening that thrives in full sun.
- For those seeking a lavender look-alike that tolerates some shade, Mexican Bush Sage is an ideal choice, flourishing in rich, moist, well-drained soil.
- The extensive variety of lavender look-alikes available, such as Marsh Blazing Star, Rosemary, Anise Hyssop, and Spiked Speedwell, caters to varied growing requirements for organic vegetable and flower gardens.
- After planting these lavender look-alikes, homeowners can enhance their garden's decor by incorporating organic strategies to encourage pollinators like bees and butterflies.
