Lavender cotton found its calling as early as 1597 in English gardens as an essential knot-garden and edging plant, trimmed and manicured for the designs of that century. Of Mediterranean origin, it has an affinity for sharply drained soils and sunny skies. It requires little attention to flourish and bloom, making it an ideal selection for xeriscaping, containers and seaside gardens. The pungent camphor-scented leaves discourage rabbits and deer from browsing. Established plants can be trimmed back by half after bloom to shape and encourage fresh, branching growth.