Lavendel
Family (Latin): Lamiaceae
Heartfelt greetings from an old hero of grand devotion
A brief introduction
Lavender boasts a rich history spanning 2500 years and offers around 450 varieties, all celebrated for their calming fragrance. This beautiful plant brings a sense of peace and elegance to any garden. Native to the Mediterranean region, lavender has been valued for millennia not just for its aromatic qualities and medicinal benefits, but also as a culinary herb. Ancient Egyptians utilized lavender in the mummification process, while the Romans cherished it for its delightful scent and healing attributes. Additionally, lavender is often seen as a symbol of love and devotion.
Popular varieties
Lavandula dentata (The French) ~ Features toothed leaves and a strong scent, often used in decorative gardening.
Lavandula stoechas (The Spanish) ~ Recognized by its unique, tufted blooms, perfect for ornamental gardens.
Lavandula angustifolia (The English) ~ Known for its sweet fragrance and hardy nature, ideal for culinary uses and essential oils.
~ The Symbolic meanings of Lavender ~
Lavender represents purity, calmness, and devotion. Its link to relaxation and serenity stems from its historical use in encouraging restful sleep and alleviating stress. In the language of flowers during the Victorian era, it communicated a sense of deep tranquility and peace.
Plant care
Soil
Lavender thrives in well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Sandy or gravelly soil enriched with organic matter works well to mimic its native habitat. Poorly draining soil can lead to root rot, so amending with sand or gravel may be beneficial.
Light
Lavender thrives in full sun, requiring a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Sufficient sunlight is essential for robust growth, lush foliage, and abundant blooms. The ideal temperature range is between 5-28°C, although it can withstand higher temperatures.
Watering
Water lavender sparingly, as it does best in dry conditions. Young plants should receive regular watering until they are well established, while mature plants only require water when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can harm lavender, which is naturally drought-tolerant. As for humidity, it thrives in drier environments with levels between 30% and 50% humidity.
Care
Lavender is low-maintenance but benefits from regular pruning to promote airflow and bushy growth. Prune lightly after the first bloom and again in late summer to maintain shape and encourage more flowers. Fertilize sparingly with compost or a light, balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Good for pollinators: Yes
Toxic to pets: Yes
Fragrant: Yes
Care difficulty: Easy
Did you know?
Lavender oil is well-known for its soothing properties and has been used since ancient Greece, both as a fragrance and as a natural insect repellent.