4/98-07 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information contact: Christine Kelleher, 800-232-9557, Ext. 512, or Gary Doerr, 916-716-1889

A long-time favorite in cottage gardens and borders, Lavender’s scented gray leaves and fine blue flowers are also used for crafts, culinary preparation and potpourri.Harvest Lavender blooms in the freshbud stage and hang in a warm shady spot to dry.

‘Blue Cushion’ plants combine well with Giant Onion (Allium spp.) and Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa). They also go nicely with Sea Holly (Eryngium spp.), Yarrow, Pinks (Dianthus spp.) and Sedum. Plants are noninvasive and insect deterrent.

Benefits. Spectacular dwarf cushion habit. Astonishing free-flowering character.

Bloom season and habit. Lovely, deep-blue flowers occur from early to late summer. Gray-green, evergreen foliage is neatly placed on tidy, compact bushes.

Location. Full sun to partial shade. Zones 5 to 9.

Use. Herb gardens, rock gardens, borders, low hedges.

Size. 16 inches tall by 16 inches wide; three plants per square yard.

Culture. Place in light, sandy alkaline soil. Water and fertilize sparingly. Cut back older, woodier plants in midspring to rejuvenate. Divide in fall if desired.