Lavandula officinalis

The common lavender is a typical perennial shrub, famous for its fragrant flowers and aromatic foliage. This variety is hardy and can be planted in the ground or in a pot. English Lavender is both ornamental, aromatic and medicinal. Plant it in spring (or autumn for mild climates) and harvest in summer.

It naturally grows in Mediterranean regions, in rocky and sunny places. It is a low shrub, reaching a height of 60 cm (24in) and a width of 40 cm (16in). The highly fragrant violet flower spikes appear from June to August. Its linear leaves are evergreen, with a green-grey color and silver reflections.

Easy to grow, the common lavender can be planted in the ground or in a pot. In ornamental gardens, its fragrant and decorative flowers will blend perfectly into flower beds. Placed in the vegetable garden, this melliferous plant will attract pollinating insects. Bees will enjoy foraging its flowers and will produce a very tasty light honey. Cultivated in pots, it will embellish patios and balconies. The common lavender is hardy, tolerating temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F).

Dried flowers pleasantly scent linen or potpourri. The use of lavender in cooking is less known but equally interesting. The leaves add flavour to white meats, game or marinades. The flowers enhance or perfume salads, roasted meats, ice creams or custards. They should be used sparingly as their fragrance is strong.

Moreover, Lavender is renowned for its antiseptic, soothing and purifying properties.

Harvesting: Cut the flowers from June to September. If you want to dry them, pick the spikes that are not yet fully ripe, preferably in the morning. The leaves are harvested in May.

Preservation: The leaves can be dried in the shade and then stored in a container, protected from light and humidity. To dry the flowers, hang a bunch upside down in a dry and airy place.

The gardener's tip: Plant Lavender at the base of your rose bushes to keep aphids away!