Spanish Lavender in Texas

English and Lavandin types are typically more sensitive to heat and humidity, making Spanish lavender a more resilient option for Texas gardens.

Spanish Lavender in Texas

• Botanical Name: Lavandula stoechas

• Common Name: Spanish Lavender, also known as “Rabbit Ears” lavender due to its showy bracts

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 7–9 (borderline perennial in Texas depending on region)

• Texas Regions Best Suited:

  • Central and South Texas (Austin, San Antonio, Hill Country)

  • Coastal areas with good drainage

  • Challenging in North Texas without protection from cold snaps

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun (6+ hours daily)

• Soil: Well-draining, sandy or rocky; neutral to slightly alkaline

• Water: Low; drought-tolerant once established

• Humidity: Tolerates moderate humidity better than English lavender but may struggle in very humid regions without airflow

Bloom Time and Appearance

• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer; may rebloom in fall with proper deadheading

• Flowers: Distinctive cone-like blooms with purple “flags” or bracts on top; strong aroma

• Foliage: Silvery-green, aromatic

Maintenance & Longevity

• Pruning: Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and prevent legginess

• Lifespan: 3–5 years under ideal conditions; shorter in poor-draining or humid conditions

Is It Texas A&M Recommended?

While Spanish lavender is not formally listed in Texas A&M’s “Texas Superstar®” or Earth-Kind® programs, many Master Gardener programs across Texas recognize it as a good fit for well-drained soils and low-water landscapes in warmer regions.

English and Lavandin types are typically more sensitive to heat and humidity, making Spanish lavender a more resilient option for Texas gardens.

Spanish Lavender Texas Perennial Great for Honeybees

As of April 2025, the U.S. honeybee population is facing a severe crisis, with commercial beekeepers reporting unprecedented colony losses of over 60% during the past winter—the highest on record. This alarming decline is attributed to a combination of factors, including climate change, habitat loss, pesticide exposure, nutritional deficiencies, and widespread infestations by varroa mites and other bee diseases. Entomologists at Washington State University have projected that U.S. honeybee colonies could shrink by up to 70% this year, further intensifying the urgency of the situation.

The consequences of this decline are far-reaching, especially for agriculture. Honeybees are vital pollinators for crops such as almonds, apples, and blueberries. Their reduced numbers threaten to lower crop yields, increase food prices, and destabilize entire ecosystems. Farmers are already voicing concerns about diminished pollination services, which could lead to long-term food production challenges.

Several factors are contributing to this collapse. Varroa mites are among the most damaging pests, weakening bees by feeding on them and spreading viruses throughout colonies. Additionally, the use of certain pesticides impairs bees’ ability to navigate and forage, resulting in increased mortality rates. The loss of diverse wildflowers and other pollinator-friendly plants due to land development and agricultural monocultures also deprives bees of essential nutrients. Meanwhile, climate change has brought about more extreme weather events and unpredictable seasonal shifts, further disrupting bees’ life cycles and natural habitats.

In response, conservation efforts are gaining traction. Habitat restoration projects aim to increase the availability of native, pollinator-friendly plants that provide critical food sources. Advocacy for stronger pesticide regulations is growing, as is support for research into bee health and resilience. Public engagement has also become a key factor in conservation—educating communities on how to support pollinators through home gardens, reduced chemical use, and awareness campaigns.

For more detailed information on the current state of honeybee populations, the challenges they face, and ongoing conservation efforts, notable sources include The Guardian, ABC News, and GBH News. These outlets have highlighted the growing crisis and emphasized the need for coordinated action across government, science, agriculture, and the public. If you’re interested in supporting bees locally, you might consider planting a pollinator garden, avoiding harmful pesticides, or advocating for bee-friendly practices in your community