Lavender is widely admired for its soothing fragrance, striking purple blooms, and versatile uses in gardens and aromatherapy.
However, many other plants share its appearance, creating confusion among gardeners and plant enthusiasts. Some flowers that look like lavender but aren't have similar flower spikes, foliage, or colour but belong to different plant families with distinct characteristics.
This guide explores 56 flowers that look like lavender, helping you identify key differences and choose the best alternative for your garden.
1. Russian Sage
Russian sage is a woody perennial known for its tall, airy spikes of small, violet-blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to autumn. Its silvery-grey, finely dissected foliage adds to its visual appeal.
While both Russian sage and lavender belong to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and share a similar colour palette, they differ in several ways. Russian sage typically grows taller, reaching heights of 3 to 5 feet, whereas lavender usually stays between 1 to 3 feet.
The fragrance of Russian sage is more pungent and earthy compared to lavender's sweet, floral scent. Additionally, Russian sage exhibits greater tolerance to varying soil conditions and moisture levels, making it a versatile choice for gardens.
2. Anise Hyssop
Anise hyssop is a herbaceous perennial that produces dense spikes of lavender-blue flowers from mid-summer to early autumn. Its aromatic, lance-shaped leaves emit a licorice or anise scent when crushed.
While its flower spikes and colour closely resemble lavender, anise hyssop's foliage is more toothed and broader. The plant typically grows between 2 to 4 feet tall, taller than most lavender varieties.
Anise hyssop prefers well-drained soil and full sun but is more tolerant of richer soils and slightly more moisture than lavender. Its unique scent and attraction to pollinators make it a delightful addition to gardens.
3. Catmint
Catmint is a hardy perennial that showcases soft, grey-green foliage and abundant spikes of lavender-blue flowers from late spring to early autumn. Its mounding habit and prolonged blooming period make it a popular choice for borders and groundcovers.
While catmint's flower colour and form are similar to lavender, its foliage is typically more aromatic, emitting a minty scent that cats find irresistible. Catmint is generally more tolerant of varying soil conditions and moisture levels than lavender, making it a versatile and low-maintenance alternative.
4. Purple Salvias
Purple salvias encompass a diverse group of perennials known for their vibrant spikes of purple flowers and aromatic foliage. Blooming from late spring through summer, they add striking colour to gardens.
While their flower spikes and hues resemble lavender, salvias often have a more upright growth habit and can vary widely in size, from low-growing ground covers to tall shrubs.
The leaves of salvias are typically broader and may have a slightly different texture compared to lavender's narrow, linear leaves. Salvias are generally more adaptable to different soil types and can thrive in both dry and moderately moist conditions.
5. Hoary Verbena
Hoary verbena is an herbaceous perennial native to central and eastern North America. It produces tall spikes of small, vibrant purple, trumpet-like flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. The plant's narrow, serrated green leaves differ from lavender's more linear foliage.
Hoary verbena thrives in moist soil and is well-suited for rain gardens or wetland edges, areas typically too wet for true lavender. Its preference for moist conditions and its native habitat distinguish it from lavender, which prefers well-drained, dry soils.
6. Larkspur
Larkspur is an annual flowering plant known for its tall spikes adorned with vibrant blossoms in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. The flowers are characterised by their unique spur—a backward-extending nectar pouch—giving them a distinctive appearance.
While larkspur's vertical flower spikes and purple hues can resemble lavender, the individual flowers are more complex and intricate compared to lavender's simpler blooms.
Additionally, larkspur typically blooms in early summer and prefers cooler climates, whereas lavender blooms later and thrives in warmer, Mediterranean-like conditions. It's important to note that all parts of the larkspur plant are toxic if ingested, a trait not shared with lavender.
7. Leadplant
Leadplant is a deciduous shrub native to North America, particularly the prairies. It features small, gray-green, pinnate leaves and produces slender spikes of tiny, bluish-purple flowers during mid to late summer.
The flower spikes bear a resemblance to lavender, but leadplant's foliage is distinctly different, being more fern-like and covered with fine hairs, giving it a silvery appearance. Unlike lavender's continuous blooming, leadplant has a shorter flowering period.
Additionally, leadplant is highly valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting surrounding vegetation—a characteristic not associated with lavender.
8. Lilac
Lilac is a deciduous shrub renowned for its fragrant, conical clusters of flowers that bloom in spring. The blossoms, typically light purple to lavender in color, can be mistaken for lavender from a distance. However, lilac flowers are densely packed in large panicles, unlike the more spaced-out spikes of lavender.
Lilac leaves are broad, heart-shaped, and much larger than the narrow, linear leaves of lavender. Moreover, lilacs are early bloomers, showcasing their flowers in spring, whereas lavender typically blooms in mid to late summer.
9. Lavender Trumpet Vine
The Lavender Trumpet Vine is a vigorous, evergreen climber native to South America. It produces abundant trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of lavender to light purple, primarily during the warmer months. While the flower color can resemble lavender, the vine's growth habit is markedly different.
This plant is a climber, using tendrils to ascend structures, making it suitable for covering trellises, fences, or walls. In contrast, lavender is a woody shrub that maintains an upright, bushy form. Additionally, the trumpet vine's leaves are broader and arranged in pairs, differing from lavender's narrow, needle-like foliage.
10. Serbian Bellflower
Serbian Bellflower is a low-growing, perennial groundcover known for its profusion of star-shaped, lavender-blue flowers. Blooming from late spring to early summer, it creates a carpet-like effect, ideal for rock gardens, borders, or cascading over walls.
While the flower color is similar to lavender, the shape and growth habit are distinct. Serbian Bellflower has a sprawling nature, with stems that trail and spread, unlike the upright form of lavender.
The leaves are also different—serbian bellflower has rounded, toothed foliage, whereas lavender's leaves are elongated and smooth-edged. Additionally, Serbian Bellflower prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, conditions that differ from the full sun and drier soils favored by lavender.
11. Miami Mist
Miami Mist is an annual herb native to eastern and central North America, known for its delicate, light blue to lavender flowers that bloom in early spring.
The flowers have a fringed appearance, giving them a misty or fuzzy look, which can be reminiscent of lavender's soft blooms.
However, Miami Mist typically grows to about 30-45 cm tall, with slender, branching stems and sharply lobed leaves, differing from lavender's woody stems and narrow, linear leaves. Additionally, Miami Mist prefers moist, shaded environments, whereas lavender thrives in sunny, well-drained soils.
12. Purple Rock Cress
Purple Rock Cress is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial native to southeastern Europe. It produces masses of small, four-petaled purple flowers in the spring, creating a carpet-like effect that can resemble a field of lavender.
However, Purple Rock Cress has a much lower growth habit, typically reaching only about 10-15 cm in height, and its leaves are small, oval-shaped, and slightly hairy, unlike the narrow, elongated leaves of lavender.
This plant is often used in rock gardens or as ground cover, thriving in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
13. Common Sage
Common Sage is a perennial, evergreen subshrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its woody stems, grayish leaves, and blue to purplish flowers. The flowers are similar in color and shape to those of lavender, and both plants belong to the mint family (Lamiaceae).
However, sage leaves are typically broader, more textured, and have a stronger, earthier aroma compared to the narrow, smooth, and sweetly scented leaves of lavender.
Additionally, while both plants prefer well-drained soils and full sun, sage is often used more for culinary purposes, whereas lavender is prized for its fragrance and ornamental appeal.
14. Spanish Sage
Spanish Sage is a small, evergreen subshrub native to Spain and southern France. It produces pale lavender to violet flowers that closely resemble those of true lavender, and its narrow, gray-green leaves add to the visual similarity.
However, Spanish Sage typically grows to about 30-60 cm in height, making it somewhat smaller than many lavender varieties.
The leaves of Spanish Sage are also more linear and have a slightly different scent, often described as a mix between lavender and common sage. This plant prefers well-drained soils and full sun, much like lavender, and is often used in culinary and medicinal applications.
15. Holy Basil
Holy Basil, also known as Tulsi, is an aromatic perennial plant native to the Indian subcontinent. It produces small, purplish flowers arranged in close whorls on its inflorescences, which can give a visual impression similar to lavender's flower spikes.
However, Holy Basil is generally a more bushy plant, with green to purple leaves that are highly aromatic, possessing a spicy, clove-like scent, quite different from lavender's sweet fragrance.
Additionally, Holy Basil is typically grown for its medicinal and religious significance, particularly in Hindu culture, whereas lavender is primarily valued for its ornamental beauty and fragrance.
16. Meadow Sage (Caradonna)
'Caradonna' is a striking cultivar of meadow sage, renowned for its tall, upright spikes of deep violet-blue flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The dark purple stems add to its visual appeal, creating a strong contrast against its gray-green foliage.
While its flower spikes and color closely resemble lavender, 'Caradonna' typically grows taller, reaching heights of up to 60-90 cm. Additionally, its leaves are more elongated and less aromatic than lavender's.
This plant thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, similar to lavender, but is generally more tolerant of colder climates.
17. Agastache 'Blue Fortune'
'Blue Fortune' is a popular hybrid known for its dense spikes of lavender-blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. The plant emits a pleasant anise or licorice scent from its foliage, adding sensory interest to gardens.
While its flower spikes resemble those of lavender, 'Blue Fortune' has broader, more toothed leaves and typically grows taller, reaching heights of 90-120 cm. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, similar to lavender, but is noted for its excellent vigor and ability to attract pollinators.
18. Nepeta 'Six Hills Giant'
'Six Hills Giant' is a robust variety of catmint, admired for its profusion of lavender-blue flowers that bloom from late spring to early autumn. The plant forms a sprawling mound of aromatic, gray-green foliage, creating a soft, billowy effect in gardens.
While its flower color is similar to lavender, 'Six Hills Giant' has a more relaxed growth habit, often spreading wider than it is tall, typically reaching heights of 60-90 cm. Its leaves are also more rounded and emit a minty fragrance. This plant is highly attractive to pollinators and is known for its drought tolerance.
19. Hebe 'Garden Beauty Blue'
'Garden Beauty Blue' is a compact evergreen shrub that produces abundant clusters of vibrant blue flowers from late spring to early autumn. Its glossy, oval-shaped leaves provide an attractive backdrop to the blooms.
While the flower clusters can resemble lavender's spikes, 'Garden Beauty Blue' has a more rounded growth habit, typically reaching heights of 30-60 cm. Additionally, its leaves are broader and lack the aromatic oils found in lavender.
This plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade and is valued for its long flowering period and low maintenance requirements.
20. Thyme
Common thyme is a woody perennial herb known for its small, lavender-pink flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant forms low-growing mats of tiny, aromatic, gray-green leaves.
While its flower color can be similar to lavender, thyme's growth habit is much more compact, typically reaching heights of 15-30 cm.
Its leaves are also much smaller and highly fragrant, commonly used in culinary applications. Thyme thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, sharing lavender's preference for dry conditions.
21. Lavender Cotton
Lavender Cotton is a compact, evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It features silver-gray, finely textured foliage that emits a pleasant, slightly medicinal scent. During summer, it produces small, button-like yellow flowers atop slender stems.
While its foliage color and texture can be reminiscent of lavender, Lavender Cotton's flowers are distinctly different in shape and color. Additionally, this plant is highly drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soils, making it suitable for rock gardens and borders.
22. French Lavender
French Lavender is a Mediterranean native known for its toothed, gray-green leaves and distinctive flower heads topped with petal-like bracts. The blooms are typically a rich purple and emit a strong fragrance.
While similar to true lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), French Lavender is less hardy and better suited to warmer climates. Its unique bracts and serrated leaves help distinguish it from other lavender species.
23. Sea Lavender
Sea Lavender, also known as Statice, is a herbaceous perennial producing clusters of small, papery flowers in shades of lavender, pink, or white atop wiry stems. The blooms create a cloud-like effect, similar to lavender's airy appearance.
However, Sea Lavender's basal rosette of broad, leathery leaves and its preference for salt-tolerant environments differentiate it from true lavender. It's often used in coastal gardens and as a dried flower in arrangements.
24. Clary Sage
Clary Sage is a biennial or short-lived perennial known for its large, aromatic, hairy leaves and tall inflorescences bearing small flowers surrounded by colorful bracts in shades of pink, white, or pale blue.
While its flower spikes and aromatic foliage can be reminiscent of lavender, Clary Sage's larger leaves and the presence of showy bracts set it apart. It's often grown for its essential oils and ornamental value in herb gardens.
25. Woolly Thyme
Woolly Thyme is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb known for its dense, silver-gray, wool-like foliage. While it rarely flowers, when it does, it produces small, pink to lavender blooms that can be reminiscent of lavender.
However, its primary appeal lies in its soft, fuzzy leaves, which differ from lavender's narrow, smooth foliage. Woolly Thyme is often used as a ground cover or between stepping stones due to its tolerance for light foot traffic and its ability to suppress weeds.
It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, similar to lavender, but remains much shorter, typically reaching only 1 to 2 inches in height.
26. Rosemary
Rosemary is an aromatic evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and pale blue to white flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring.
Its foliage is often mistaken for lavender due to its similar texture and color. However, rosemary's leaves are thicker, more resinous, and emit a distinct, pungent aroma compared to lavender's sweeter scent.
The plant's growth habit is also more upright and bushy, and it can grow taller than most lavender species. Rosemary is commonly used in culinary applications and prefers well-drained soil and full sun, much like lavender.
27. Bluebeard
Bluebeard, also known as Blue Mist Spirea, is a deciduous shrub that produces clusters of fragrant, blue flowers in late summer to early fall. Its silvery-green leaves and blue blooms can resemble lavender from a distance.
However, Bluebeard's flowers are more clustered and have a different structure than lavender's elongated spikes. The shrub typically grows to about 2 to 3 feet in height and is known for attracting pollinators like butterflies and bees.
28. Bugleweed
Bugleweed, also known as Carpet Bugle, is a herbaceous perennial that forms dense mats of glossy, dark green to purple leaves. In spring, it sends up spikes of blue to purple flowers that can be reminiscent of lavender's blooms.
However, Bugleweed's flower spikes are shorter, and its foliage is broader and more robust than lavender's narrow leaves. This plant is often used as a ground cover in shaded areas, as it tolerates partial to full shade, contrasting with lavender's preference for full sun.
29. Blue Oat Grass
Blue Oat Grass is an ornamental grass known for its steel-blue, narrow leaves that form a neat, rounded clump. In late spring to early summer, it produces tall stems topped with oat-like, tan seed heads.
While its foliage color can be similar to some lavender varieties, its grass-like appearance and lack of true flowers make it quite distinct. Blue Oat Grass is often used in borders, rock gardens, or as an accent plant. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, similar to lavender, and is drought-tolerant once established.
30. Globe Thistle
Globe Thistle is a herbaceous perennial known for its spherical, spiny blue blooms that appear from late summer into early fall. The grayish-green foliage and blue flower heads can resemble lavender's color palette.
However, Globe Thistle's distinctive globe-shaped flowers and spiky texture set it apart from lavender's more elongated flower spikes.
31. Blue False Indigo
Blue False Indigo is a native perennial that produces spikes of pea-like, deep blue to violet flowers in late spring to early summer. Its gray-green trifoliate leaves and upright flower spikes bear a resemblance to lavender.
However, Blue False Indigo typically grows taller, reaching heights of up to 1.5 meters, and its flowers are more reminiscent of pea blossoms. The plant is also known for its deep taproot, which contributes to its drought resistance.
32. Chaste Tree
The Chaste Tree is a fast-growing, summer-blooming shrub that produces fragrant spikes of purple, pink, or white flowers. Its aromatic, palmate leaves and upright flower clusters can resemble lavender's appearance.
However, the Chaste Tree can grow much larger, often reaching heights of 3 to 5 meters, and its leaves are distinctly different in shape, being divided into five to seven leaflets. It thrives in warm climates and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
33. Blue Star
Blue Star is a herbaceous perennial known for its clusters of pale blue, star-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring. Its fine, needle-like foliage and soft blue flowers can give a similar visual effect to lavender.
However, Blue Star's flowers are distinctly star-shaped, and its foliage turns a brilliant golden color in the fall, unlike lavender's evergreen nature. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
34. Speedwell
Speedwell is a versatile perennial that produces spikes of small, tubular flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white from late spring to early summer. Its flower spikes and foliage can resemble those of lavender.
However, Speedwell typically has a more compact growth habit, and its flowers are smaller and more densely packed on the spikes. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making it a versatile addition to various garden settings.
35. Perennial Flax
Perennial flax is a slender herbaceous plant that typically reaches 45-60 cm in height. It produces delicate, sky-blue, cup-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant's narrow, lance-shaped leaves and airy growth habit can resemble lavender's foliage.
However, perennial flax's flowers are more delicate and have a distinct five-petal structure, differing from lavender's tubular blooms.
36. Bluebell
Bluebells are bulbous perennials known for their nodding, bell-shaped, deep blue flowers that bloom in mid to late spring.
They often form dense carpets in woodland areas, creating a striking visual effect. While their blue hues can be reminiscent of lavender, bluebells have a distinct drooping flower shape and broader, strap-like leaves. They thrive in partial shade and moist, well-drained soils, making them ideal for woodland gardens.
37. Jacob's Ladder
Jacob's Ladder is a clump-forming perennial that grows up to 90 cm tall. It features pinnate leaves with numerous small leaflets arranged like a ladder, hence the name. The plant produces clusters of blue, cup-shaped flowers in late spring to early summer.
While the flower color can be similar to lavender, Jacob's Ladder's foliage is more delicate and ladder-like in appearance. It prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, making it suitable for woodland and shade gardens.
38. Bellflower
Bellflowers encompass a diverse group of perennials that produce bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white. Depending on the species, they can range from low-growing ground covers to taller border plants.
While their blue-purple flowers can resemble lavender, bellflowers typically have a more pronounced bell shape and broader leaves. They adapt to various soil conditions and can thrive in full sun to partial shade, depending on the species.
39. Wisteria
Wisteria is a vigorous, deciduous climber known for its cascading clusters of fragrant, pea-like, lavender to bluish-purple flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
While the flower color can be similar to lavender, wisteria's growth habit is vastly different, as it is a woody vine that requires sturdy support. Its compound leaves are also much larger than lavender's narrow foliage. Wisteria thrives in full sun and well-drained soils and is often used to adorn pergolas, walls, and fences.
40. Clematis
Clematis is a climbing plant that produces an abundance of showy flowers in a variety of colors, including purple.
It belongs to the buttercup family and is known for its large, striking blooms and ability to climb walls, trellises, and other structures. Clematis flowers come in different shapes and sizes, ranging from delicate, bell-shaped flowers to large, star-shaped blooms.
41. Allium
Alliums, also known as ornamental onions, are herbaceous perennials that produce round clusters of tiny star-shaped flowers atop tall, slender stems.
The blooms, often in shades of purple, resemble lavender's color palette. However, allium flowers form spherical umbels rather than elongated spikes, and their foliage consists of strap-like leaves at the plant's base.
42. American Wisteria
American wisteria is a woody vine that produces fragrant purple flowers on drooping stems in the spring. It can stretch to 30 feet or longer under prime growing conditions. To fully enjoy its beautiful growth, provide this vine with a sturdy trellis, post, or other support structure.
43. Aster
Asters are perennial flowers from the Asteraceae family, known for their colorful, daisy-like blooms that appear in late summer and continue through mid to late autumn.
These flowers thrive in various environments, including meadows and woodland edges, and are favored for their ease of care, attractiveness to pollinators, and resistance to deer. Asters' blooms are typically larger and more daisy-like compared to lavender's slender spikes.
44. Butterfly Bush
The butterfly bush is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub known for its long, arching clusters of tiny, fragrant flowers that bloom from summer to fall.
While the flower clusters can resemble lavender's spikes, butterfly bush flowers are more elongated and often come in a wider range of colors, including purple, pink, and white.
The leaves are lance-shaped and arranged oppositely, differing from lavender's linear, gray-green foliage. Butterfly bushes are highly attractive to butterflies and other pollinators, making them a popular choice for wildlife gardens.
45. Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are deciduous shrubs known for their large, round clusters of flowers that bloom in shades of blue, pink, white, or purple. While the purple varieties can resemble lavender in color, hydrangeas have a distinctly different flower structure, forming globe-like clusters rather than elongated spikes.
The leaves are broad, ovate, and have a coarser texture compared to lavender's narrow, linear foliage. Hydrangeas prefer partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, differing from lavender's preference for full sun and drier conditions.
46. Hyssop
Hyssop is a herbaceous perennial that produces spikes of small, tubular flowers in shades of blue, pink, or white during the summer months. Its aromatic, lance-shaped leaves and upright flower spikes can resemble lavender's appearance.
However, hyssop's foliage is darker green and more needle-like, and the plant typically grows shorter, reaching heights of up to 60 centimeters. Hyssop is often used in herbal medicine and culinary applications, adding to its versatility in the garden.
47. Petunia
Petunias are popular annuals known for their vibrant, funnel-shaped flowers that come in a wide range of colors, including purple. While purple petunias can mimic lavender's hue, their flower shape and growth habit are quite different.
Petunias have a more sprawling or mounding form and lack the woody stems characteristic of lavender. They are commonly used in hanging baskets, window boxes, and as ground cover, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil.
48. Rhododendron
Rhododendrons are evergreen or deciduous shrubs known for their large, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters during the spring. While some purple varieties can resemble lavender in color, rhododendrons have broader leaves and a more substantial, bushy growth habit.
The flowers are larger and have a different structure compared to lavender's slender spikes. Rhododendrons prefer acidic, well-drained soil and partial shade, making them suitable for woodland gardens.
49. Giant Hyssops
Giant hyssops, also known as hummingbird mints, are herbaceous perennials that produce tall spikes of tubular flowers in shades of purple, pink, or orange from mid-summer to fall. Their aromatic, lance-shaped leaves and upright flower spikes closely resemble lavender's appearance.
However, giant hyssops often have a more extensive color range and can grow taller, reaching heights of up to 1.2 meters. They are highly attractive to pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, and thrive in full sun with well-drained soil.
50. Anemone
Anemones, also known as windflowers, are a diverse group of perennials that produce poppy-like flowers in various colors, including shades of purple, pink, white, and blue.
While their purple varieties can resemble lavender in color, anemones typically have a more delicate, cup-shaped flower structure compared to lavender's elongated spikes. Additionally, anemones often bloom in early spring or fall, whereas lavender generally blooms in mid to late summer.
Anemones prefer partial shade and well-drained, humus-rich soil, differing from lavender's preference for full sun and drier conditions. Their foliage is also more finely divided and fern-like compared to the narrow, linear leaves of lavender.
51. Basil
Basil is a fragrant annual herb commonly used in culinary dishes. While it's primarily grown for its flavorful leaves, basil does produce small, tubular flowers that can be white, pink, or purple.
The purple flowering varieties might superficially resemble lavender; however, basil's flower spikes are generally shorter and less dense than those of lavender. Moreover, basil's broad, aromatic leaves are quite different from lavender's slender, gray-green foliage.
Basil thrives in warm, sunny conditions with well-drained soil, similar to lavender, but it requires more frequent watering to prevent wilting.
52. Gladiolus
Gladiolus, often referred to as 'glads,' are perennial plants known for their tall flower spikes adorned with trumpet-shaped blooms in a wide array of colors, including purples and lavenders.
While the color of certain gladiolus varieties can be similar to lavender, their flower structure is quite different; gladiolus flowers are larger, more showy, and arranged along a tall, unbranched stem.
Additionally, gladiolus plants have sword-like leaves that are distinct from lavender's narrow, aromatic foliage. Gladiolus prefers full sun and well-drained soil but typically requires more watering than lavender.
53. Heliotrope
Heliotrope is a perennial plant often grown as an annual in cooler climates, admired for its clusters of small, fragrant flowers that are typically deep purple, lavender, or white.
The rich purple varieties can resemble lavender in color; however, heliotrope's flower clusters are denser and more rounded compared to the elongated spikes of lavender.
Furthermore, heliotrope's leaves are dark green, oval, and have a slightly wrinkled texture, differing from lavender's narrow, linear foliage. Heliotrope thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil, requiring more water than lavender.
54. Iris
Irises are a genus of flowering plants that come in a wide range of colors, including various shades of purple and blue that can resemble lavender.
However, iris flowers are typically larger and have a unique structure with three upright petals (standards) and three hanging petals (falls), unlike the uniform spikes of lavender flowers.
Additionally, iris leaves are sword-shaped and arranged in a fan-like pattern, which is quite different from lavender's needle-like foliage. Irises prefer full sun and well-drained soil, similar to lavender, but they often require more moisture, especially during the growing season.
55. Little Girl Magnolias
The 'Little Girl' series of magnolias comprises eight cultivars—'Ann', 'Betty', 'Jane', 'Judy', 'Pinkie', 'Randy', 'Ricki', and 'Susan'—developed in the mid-20th century. These deciduous shrubs or small trees are known for their late-spring blooms, which help them avoid frost damage.
The flowers, appearing before the foliage, range in color from deep purple to pink, with a goblet-like shape. While the purple hues may evoke lavender, the magnolia's large, tulip-shaped blossoms and broader leaves set them apart.
56. Mexican Bush Sage
Mexican Bush Sage is a herbaceous perennial native to Mexico, celebrated for its velvety, arching spikes of purple and white flowers that bloom from late summer to the first frost. The plant typically reaches heights of 3 to 4 feet, with a similar spread, and features linear, gray-green leaves with a soft texture.
The flower spikes bear a resemblance to lavender; however, Mexican Bush Sage's blooms are more elongated and have a distinctly velvety appearance.
This sage thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, exhibiting notable drought tolerance once established. It's also known to attract hummingbirds and butterflies, adding dynamic interest to gardens.
Conclusion About The Flowers That Look Similar To Lavender
Lavender’s unmistakable fragrance and purple flower spikes make it a favourite, but as this guide shows, plenty of flowers look similar to lavender while offering unique traits.
Some thrive in humid climates where lavender struggles, while others require less maintenance or bring different scents to the garden. By selecting alternatives that match your local growing conditions, you can enjoy the charm of lavender without the challenges.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Flowers That Look Similar To Lavender
Does Growing Flowers That Look Similar To Lavender Require The Same Care As Real Lavender?
Not necessarily. While some look-alikes, like Russian sage and catmint, thrive in similar dry, well-draining conditions, others, such as lilacs and hydrangeas, require more water and richer soil. It’s important to match the plant’s care needs to your climate and garden conditions.
Can Flowers That Look Like Lavender Survive In Pots Or Containers?
Yes, many lavender look-alikes, like salvia, thyme, and French lavender, grow well in containers. Ensure they have well-draining soil, adequate sunlight, and occasional pruning to maintain their shape and health.
Do Flowers Similar To Lavender Need Regular Pruning?
Some do, depending on the plant. Perennials like Russian sage and catmint benefit from seasonal pruning to encourage fuller growth and more blooms, while others, like hydrangeas, only need occasional deadheading.
Can Flowers That Resemble Lavender Be Used For Essential Oils Or Dried Arrangements?
Yes, but the scent and properties vary. Plants like clary sage and anise hyssop can be used for essential oils, while salvia and French lavender are great for dried arrangements.
Which Flowers That Look Like Lavender Are Best For Low-Maintenance Gardens?
Russian sage, catmint, and verbena are excellent low-maintenance alternatives. They thrive in dry conditions, require minimal watering, and naturally resist pests.
