Lavender is a fragrant landscape addition.
Native to the the Mediterranean coast, lavender -- also known as common lavender, English lavender, French lavender or garden lavender -- grows best in mild climates and sunny locations. Lavender thrives in the United States, Australia and southern Europe. A thickly branched, small perennial shrub, lavender grows to 20 to 24 inches tall at maturity. The sturdy, woody rootstock bears branches covered in green-gray feathery foliage. The leaves are oblong, narrow and tapered. Flowers are a pale lavender color and highly fragrant, emitting a sweet herbaceous scent. A highly versatile herb, lavender's applications are only limited by the imagination and can be used both for culinary and cosmetic purposes.
Cosmetic Applications
The scent of lavender calms and relaxes.
Lavender species include Lavandula angustifolia, Lavandula latifolia and Lavandula officinalis. Lavender derives its name from the Latin word lavera, meaning to wash. Lavender is available for purchase online or from local growers and distributors as an essential oil, extracts, teas and tinctures. Fresh lavender is readily cultivated in the home garden or purchased from local growers. Highly pungent Lavandula angustifolia is a prized ingredient in soaps, bath gels, lotions, shampoos and lip balm.
Culinary Seasoning
Lavender tea has a haunting, herbaceous flavor.
Lavender, a member of the mint family, is a versatile herb used in food preparation. It adds color and serves as a garnish to a diverse array of dishes. The flavor of lavender enhances fruit, salads, deserts and meat. Provence or English lavender (augustifolia) provides a delicate flavor to culinary dishes without the strong perfume or taste found in other lavender varieties. A subtle hint of lavender brings out the juices and flavor of a beef pot roast. Lavender is especially tasty when paired with fruit and cheese. It adds zest to bland foods and is the essence of a delicate tea. The light scent and flavor of culinary lavender complements sorbets, custards, confections and ice cream.
Cultivation
Lavender is easy to grow and is a hardy perennial.
All varieties of lavender grow best in sunny, well-drained soil. Lavender requires an inch of water per week, thriving in moist, nutrient rich soil. Enrich soil with organic compost prior to planting. Lavender is a perennial herb. Harvest when very first buds start to open. Cut and tie in bundles. Hang the bundles to dry with flower heads pointing downward. Place in a location out of direct sunlight. Provide adequate ventilation. Lavender has a tendency to mold, if dried laying on a horizontal screen or surface.
Purity
Essential oils are obtained from aromatic plants by a diverse array of extraction methods including water and steam distillation, hydro-distillation, direct steam distillation or solvent extraction. Choose certified organic or wild crafted, therapeutic grade, pure lavender oil.
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