'Silver Edge' lavender, often listed as Lavandula x intermedia 'Silver Edge' (and sometimes referred to by the cultivar name 'Walberton's Silver Edge' or 'Walvera'), stands out primarily due to its distinctive variegated foliage, which is a rare trait among lavenders. While most lavenders are cherished for their silvery-green leaves, 'Silver Edge' takes this a step further with its unique bicolor appearance.
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Here's what makes 'Silver Edge' lavender unique:
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Variegated Foliage: Silver/Cream Edging on Gray-Green Leaves:
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This is the most striking and defining feature of 'Silver Edge'. Its narrow, aromatic leaves are gray-green in the center with a prominent, creamy white to silvery-white margin or edge. This variegation creates a luminous, almost glowing effect in the garden.
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The variegation is most pronounced and vibrant during cooler periods, especially in spring and fall, and can soften or become less distinct in the intense heat of summer.
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This unusual foliage provides year-round visual interest, making it attractive even when the plant is not in bloom, and significantly enhances its ornamental value. It truly "lights up" areas of the garden, including moonlight gardens.
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Flower Color: Blue-Violet with Dark Tips:
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'Silver Edge' produces attractive blue-violet to dusky blue-purple flower spikes. The blooms are typically compact and appear in summer.
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The flower buds often have darker tips, contributing to a subtle two-tone effect before fully opening, providing a nice contrast with the variegated foliage.
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Growth Habit: Bushy, Mounded, and Medium-Sized:
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It forms a bushy, well-branched, and mounded shrub, typically reaching a height and spread of 2-3 feet (60-90 cm). This makes it a good choice for mid-border plantings, hedges, or as a specimen plant.
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Its habit is generally tidy, and it tends to fill out well.
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Fragrance: Classic Lavandin Scent:
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As a Lavandula x intermedia (lavandin) hybrid, 'Silver Edge' carries a strong, clean, and pleasing lavender fragrance. This scent is a blend of the sweet floral notes of English lavender and the slightly more herbaceous/camphoraceous notes of spike lavender.
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While aromatic, its essential oil composition would lean more towards a typical lavandin (e.g., higher in 1,8-cineole and camphor than L. angustifolia), making it more suited for aromatic and external therapeutic uses rather than delicate culinary applications, although it's not considered toxic.
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Hardiness and Adaptability:
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Cold Hardy: 'Silver Edge' is a relatively cold-hardy lavandin, generally performing well in USDA Zones 5-11. This extended hardiness zone means it can withstand more varied climates, including many northern regions (like Door County WI), especially with proper care.
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Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is very drought-tolerant and thrives in dry to average moisture levels.
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Full Sun & Excellent Drainage: Like all lavenders, it demands full sun (at least 6-8 hours daily) and exceptionally well-drained soil. It prefers lean, sandy, or rocky soils with a neutral to alkaline pH (pH 6.7-7.5). Good drainage is crucial for its winter survival and overall health, particularly to prevent root rot in heavier soils or humid environments.
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Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Its aromatic foliage helps deter most Browse animals.
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Why 'Silver Edge' is Unique:
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Variegation: Its primary uniqueness lies in its striking variegated foliage, which is uncommon among readily available lavender varieties. This makes it stand out visually even when not in bloom.
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Combined Traits: It marries the robust growth and hardiness of a lavandin with the ornamental appeal of variegated leaves, offering a unique package.
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Contrast Plant: The bright foliage provides excellent contrast in the garden, making it a favorite for mixed borders and adding brightness to any landscape.
For gardeners seeking something truly different in the lavender family, 'Silver Edge' offers a compelling choice with its beautiful variegated leaves and classic lavender charm. It's an excellent ornamental plant that can be found from various nurseries, including a lavender farm or when you buy lavender online.
