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french lavender tree

Searching for a French lavender tree? You’re likely picturing a fragrant, silvery shrub that brings elegance and vibrant colour to gardens and outdoor spaces. French lavender, scientifically known as Lavender dentata, is a must-have for New Zealand gardeners who love the classic Mediterranean look and feel. Unlike traditional “trees”, French lavender forms a bushy shrub but can be pruned or shaped to mimic a small tree—making it delightfully versatile for both beds and containers. With its aromatic foliage and distinctive, frilled flowers, French lavender is perfect for sunny spots, offering beauty as well as a calming scent. Explore how to grow, use, and care for French lavender tree forms, plus discover excellent companion plants for creating a garden oasis.

A mass display of Lavandula dentata purple and pink flowers.

Lavender dentata (French Lavender)

Lavender dentata (French Lavender) is a popular evergreen shrub prized for its fragrant foliage, distinctive toothed leaves, and masses of soft purple flowers. Flowering over a long period, it brings colour, fragrance, and texture to gardens throughout much of the year.

From $18.95

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 80 cm
Spread: 80 cm
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Rock
cedrela-sinensis-flamingo-7

Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree)

5 from 1 customers

Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree) is a spectacular deciduous tree prized for its striking flushes of vibrant pink foliage that mature through shades of cream and green. The colourful new growth creates an outstanding feature during spring while the elegant branching habit provides year round structure.

From $270.40

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 10.00 m
Spread: 6.50 m
Flowering time: Summer
Garden uses: Living areas
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Lavender 'Major' plants with purple flowers above olive-green foliage.
Lavender 'Major'

Lavender 'Major' is an impressive lavender variety known for its tall flower spikes and rich purple blooms held above aromatic grey green foliage...

From$17.95
Lavender 'The Queen' shrub with pink flowers.
Lavender 'The Queen'

Lavender 'The Queen' is a regal lavender variety admired for its rich purple blooms and fragrant grey green foliage. Flowering from spring into...

From$18.95
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata', also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

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Santolina chamaecyparissus plants with grey foliage and yellow flowers.
Santolina chamaecyparissus

Santolina chamaecyparissus (Cotton Lavender) is a hardy evergreen shrublet known for its silver grey foliage and compact, rounded form. This...

From$24.77
Lavender 'Radiance' plant with masses of pink flowers.
Lavender 'Radiance'

Lavender 'Radiance' is an attractive evergreen shrub valued for its aromatic foliage and colourful flower spikes that bring long lasting interest to...

From$19.95
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$30.29
Lavender 'Silver Prince' plant with pink flowers above grey-green foliage.
Lavender 'Silver Prince'

Lavender 'Silver Prince' is an attractive evergreen shrub valued for its silvery foliage and colourful flower spikes that bring year round interest...

From$19.95
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Pinus pinea

Pinus pinea (Pine Nut) is a distinctive evergreen conifer admired for its broad umbrella shaped canopy, long green needles, and edible pine nuts...

From$270.40
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

From$387.55
A large cabbage tree growing on a ridge.
Rose 'Lavender Jewel'

Rose 'Lavender Jewel' is a stunning hybrid tea rose admired for its exquisite lavender blooms and strong, sweet fragrance. Each perfectly formed...

From$30.29
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Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
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PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

From$130.50
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PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

From$169.50
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Tree Fertiliser

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$515.35
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Jute Tree Tie

Jute Tree Tie is a natural and flexible option for securing young trees to stakes while they establish. The soft material helps reduce rubbing and...

From$64.67
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Tree Guards

Tree Guards provide a simple and effective way to protect young trees from animals, wind, accidental damage, and herbicide spray. They create a...

From$5.00
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
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Cloth Tree Tie

Cloth Tree Ties are a soft, flexible solution for securely supporting young trees and plants while they establish. Made from durable cloth material...

From$9.28
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Fruit Tree Fertiliser

Fruit Tree Fertiliser is specially formulated to support healthy growth, strong root development, and productive fruiting in a wide range of fruit...

From$16.95
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Palm Tree Fertiliser

Choosing the correct Palm tree fertiliser is essential for producing better quality foliage, stronger fronds, and a much healthier and brighter...

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Very elegant Wisteria 'Lavender Lace' blue flowers.
Wisteria 'Lavender Lace'

Wisteria 'Lavender Lace' is a graceful flowering climber admired for its long cascading racemes of soft lavender flowers that appear in spring. The...

OUT OF STOCK
Scabiosa 'Lavender' blue flowers.
Scabiosa 'Lavender'

Scabiosa 'Lavender' is a charming perennial renowned for its soft lavender coloured flowers that bloom over a long period. The delicate pincushion...

OUT OF STOCK
Lavender 'Hidcote' small shrub with elegant blue flowers and green foliage.
Lavender angustifolia 'Hidcote'

Lavender angustifolia 'Hidcote' is a stunning variety that grows as a compact shrub and carries masses of short, violet-purple flower spikes through...

OUT OF STOCK
Lavender 'My Choice' plant with blue flowers and grey foliage.
Lavender 'My Choice'

Lavender 'My Choice' is a beautifully compact lavender variety admired for its soft mauve blooms and aromatic grey green foliage. Flowering...

OUT OF STOCK
Lavandula 'The Princess' shrub in a garden featuing elegant pink flowers.
Lavender 'The Princess'

Lavender 'The Princess' is a striking lavender variety renowned for its vibrant pink flowers and attractive grey green foliage. Blooming from spring...

OUT OF STOCK
Lavandula pedunculata plant with masses of pink flowers.
Lavender pedunculata

Lavender pedunculata is a distinctive lavender species admired for its upright flower spikes topped with elegant coloured bracts. Flowering from...

OUT OF STOCK
Lavender 'Snow Princess' plant in a pot with white flowers.
Lavender 'Snow Princess'

Lavender 'Snow Princess' is a beautiful lavender variety prized for its crisp white flowers and aromatic grey green foliage. Flowering from spring...

OUT OF STOCK
Lavandula stoechas (Spanish Lavender) purple-pink flowers.
Lavender stoechas (Spanish Lavender)

Lavandula stoechas, known as Spanish Lavender, grows as a compact shrub and carries masses of small, purple flower spikes from spring through summer...

OUT OF STOCK
Lavender dentata (French Lavender)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Cedrela, Lavender, and Liriodendron, or related Categories - Pine Nuts, Deciduous Shrubs, and Evergreen Shrubs.

Search french lavender tree

What is a French Lavender Tree?

The French lavender tree is not an actual tree, but rather a term used for mature Lavender dentata plants that are shaped to resemble small multi-stemmed trees. Native to the Mediterranean region, French lavender thrives in New Zealand’s temperate climate, especially in well-drained soil with plenty of sunshine. Its grey-green foliage is evergreen, and the toothed leaves (hence the name “dentata”) add texture year-round. Unlike English lavender, the French lavender tree is known for tougher, longer flowering seasons, making it a favourite in both formal and cottage gardens. The shrubby form can be shaped into a “tree” by selective pruning, creating an eye-catching focal point.

You can find high-quality plants on our Lavender dentata (French Lavender) page, perfect for both hedging and tree-form displays.

Growing and Caring for French Lavender Trees

Cultivating a French lavender tree in New Zealand is straightforward with a few expert tips:

French lavender tree forms are ideal for patios, entryways, or as accent pieces in borders. They pair beautifully with other Mediterranean shrubs or can be mixed alongside unique foliage plants. If you’re interested in alternative shapes or colours, explore Lavender 'Foveaux Storm', Lavender 'Arabian Nights', and Lavender 'Major' for distinctive hues and flower forms.

Garden Uses for French Lavender Trees

French lavender trees are valued for more than their looks. Their aromatic oils help deter pests, making them ideal for natural garden protection. The striking blooms attract pollinators—bees and butterflies are especially fond of the vivid purple flowers.

Garden designers love using French lavender trees as living sculptures, lining pathways or framing garden entrances. Their ability to thrive in pots means you can easily display them on decks or balconies.

For contrast or additional structure, consider pairing with upright shrubs like Cedrela sinensis Flamingo (Toon Tree), whose colourful young foliage complements lavender’s classic tones.

Explore Our Lavender Collection

Bring the beauty and fragrance of Mediterranean gardens home with a French lavender tree or shrub. Shop our full range, including Lavender dentata (French Lavender), and discover vibrant varieties such as Lavender 'Foveaux Storm', Lavender 'Arabian Nights', and Lavender 'Major' to create your perfect outdoor retreat.

For expert advice and hardy, locally grown plants, trust us to help your garden thrive. Enjoy the timeless appeal and year-round benefits of French lavender tree forms and make your landscape a truly enchanting place.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Illustration of plant leaves.
Gardeners love Rose 'Flower Carpet White' and Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily', but there’s a growing buzz around plants like Miscanthus 'Zebrinus', Pyrus 'Autumn Leaves', and Quince 'Pineapple'.
–The Plant Company

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