Small, deep blue flowers on tall thin spikes come into bloom from mid-summer up to the first hard frost. Finely dissected leaves are fern-like in appearance and tolerate humid conditions better than other species of lavender. When leaves are bruised or crushed, the fragrance is closer to oregano than the traditional lavender. This plant is unfortunately not hardy in Chicago-area gardens unless grown in a container and brought indoors for the winter. Full sun, well-drained soils, and good air movement are all key to success.