What is Lavender (Lavandula)?
Lavender (Lavandula) is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. Lavender is the most widely cultivated of the lavender species, but there are many other lavender species in the world. Lavender is a shrub or small tree that can reach 10–15 m (33–49 ft) in height, with linear, spongy leaves 6–12 cm (2.4–4.7 in) long and 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 in) wide. Lavender flowers are blue, purple, or white. Some species of lavender may have pink flowers, but this is not common.
Lavender (Lavandula) is commonly known as English Lavender, French Lavender, or simply Lavender. It is native to Europe, Asia, and India. Originally this perennial plant comes from southwestern Europe (Mediterranean region). In Belgium and the Netherlands, lavender is often grown as an ornamental plant and sometimes feral.
What is the Difference Between Lavender and Lavandula?
There are several key differences between lavender and Lavandula. First, lavender is generally taller than Lavandula and has larger flowers. Second, lavender has a stronger, more floral smell than Lavandula. Third, lavender is more delicate and requires special care when growing, while Lavandula can be grown in a more temperate climate. Fourth, lavender is used more for its oil than for its flowers, while Lavandula is mostly used for its flowers. Fifth, lavender is more expensive than Lavandula.
Lavender is the common name for the botanical name for Lavandula angustifolia. Lavender is a dark purple or blackish-purple, while Lavandula angustifolia is a lighter purple.
What are the best Growth Conditions for the Lavender?
Lavender (Lavandula) is a versatile plant that is heat-loving and thrives in stony, dry places. The shrubby lavender grows to 1-3 meters tall.
Lavender grows best in full sunlight and well-drained soil. In hot summer climates, lavenders may benefit from afternoon shade to stay cool.
Lavender prefers soil that is low to moderately fertile and in the neutral to slightly alkaline range. Add lime if your soil is too acidic or alkaline, for best results.
What is Lavender used for?
Lavender has a long history of being used as a fragrance and as an herbal remedy.
The leaves of lavender are often used in herbalism, especially for anxiety, insomnia, and depression. Lavandula is the species of lavender that is most commonly used for culinary purposes.
Lavandula angustifolia is the species of lavender used most for perfume and therapeutic purposes. English lavender, French lavender, and Spanish lavender are other species of lavender that are used for perfume and therapeutic purposes.
Lavender is also a well-known natural insect repellant. It has been used for centuries to keep pests away and is effective in repelling a wide variety of insects.
Lavender can be used to treat skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. There is no cure for eczema but lavender oil is known to help reduce the irritation and redness that is a common side effect of eczema. This also applies to psoriasis: there is no cure for it but lavender oil can help people to manage their symptoms.
Lavender is generally considered safe to use, but should not be ingested due to its high concentration of linalool.
Lavender for use in the kitchen
Culinary Uses for Lavender:
- Lavender essential oil is a popular choice for culinary use. It has a sweet, floral, and woody scent.
- Lavender tea is also popular for culinary use. Tea made with lavender can be soothing and help to improve sleep quality.
- Lavender honey is a great addition to tea or foods. It has a mild flavor and a delicate sweetness.
- Lavender ice cream is a delicious way to enjoy the flavor of lavender. Ice cream made with lavender can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
- Lavender scones are a perfect addition to breakfast or lunch. They are soft and fluffy and are perfect for comforting food.
- Lavender honey cake is a sweet and delicate cake that is perfect for special occasions.
- Lavender shortbread cookies are perfect for special occasions, or for snack time. They are buttery and crispy and have a sweet and delicate flavor.
Lavender is a versatile herb with many culinary uses. If you are looking for a unique flavor for your food, or if you are looking for a way to improve your sleep, lavender is a good choice.
Macro photography
The macro shot above was taken in my backyard, handheld, in other words: without a tripod. The camera I used was a DSLR Canon EOS 750D. No filter was used.
I love doing macro photography, especially in the Spring and Summer. It has something therapeutic just like astrophotography. Imaging in nature, makes you see all kinds of treasures and learn to observe them like you never did before. And afterward, if you then identify the object (insect, plant, …) of your photo, you have learned something new again. This way you broaden your horizon every time.
Image details
- Camera: Canon EOS 750D DSLR
- Camera tripod: handheld, no tripod
- Filter: No filter
