I know that many of you will be thinking, "why is this even a question?" when you read this post title. But let me begin by professing my love for Lavenders. I have always wanted to incorporate them in my garden design, and now is a perfect time to add them, because I am replacing a row 10' long with plants that will be long lasting and add interest and color.

(This is also a continuation of my earlier thread: Earlier thread: Kangaroo Paws or Evergreen Daylilies?).

The only catch is that, most, if not all, Lavenders that I've seen have grown woody in a couple of years. I used to think that it was because in my area they are mostly used in drought-tolerant type landscapes and therefore they might be watered insufficiently leading to the look. But recently I visited my nursery and was told that no matter which variety, lavenders will turn woody and leafless at the base.

Considering that there are over a hundred varietals, I find it unbelievable that not even one of these managed to escape this undesirable trait. I wanted to ask around if folks have had any experiences (good/bad) with Lavenders.

On my previous thread, it was suggested that lavenders could be treated as long term annuals, i.e. one could take them out periodically and place new plants in there. I thought this was a great idea, but again, I would like to know if the roots will go so deep that they will be hard to take off, and more importantly if the roots might actually uproot the irrigation pipes that are running through this spot. That would be $$ to fix and will destroy the other parts of the garden till that fix happens.

BTW -- my other constraints: this area gets automatic irrigation (therefore the plant must be ok getting a drink each day), full blasting sun, this spot is among the low height bed where I would prefer the height to be no more than 2 ft (18 inches ideal, and I've found Mexican Lavender varieties that fit this bill), I'd like a bushy appearance preferably for long run.

Aesthetically, this happens to be the focal area of my garden, therefore look is important.

Also, while at it, the variety I'm considering is a Deep Rose Spanish Lavender from a reputed nursery. Supposed to grow ~18 inches tall, bushy and 24" wide.

Looking forward to hearing from the community. Thanks in advance!!