Lavender lovers unite this time of year for the festivals that surround this impressive perennial herb. If you are able to attend one of these events you will find that Lavender is known for more than just beauty and fragrance, its a source of inspiration for artists, makes for unique flavor in foods and has medicinal properties as well. You certainly dont need to travel to a festival to enjoy this plant, when you can add some to your own garden.
Here are some of the differences in Lavender varieties:
Lavendula angustifolia (English Lavender) The hardiest of all lavenders, early summer bloom, mounding with short flower spikes. Used in cooking, best for crafts, soaps, candles, perfumes, sachets. This is the classic lavender scent, and you will find many, many varieties available.
Lavendula x intermedia (Hedge Lavender) Sterile hybrid of L. angustifolia and L. latifolia, this grouping tends to be taller than the English lavenders. Strong scent, but not sweet like the English lavenders. Bloom period is a little later than the English. Can be used in fragrances, oils, potpourri, and wands.
Lavendula stoechas (Spanish Lavender) An absolute favorite for showy blooms there are large, showy bracts at the tip of each flower spike which look a little like butterflies or rabbit ears. Spanish lavenders are also the earliest blooming, and although with a reputation for being tender, weve seen them easily go five years with no problem. They tend to grow from 1 to 3 tall and really benefit from annual pruning/shaping.
Here are a few new varieties that will be coming soon to our greenhouse:
Purple Bouquet
Blueberry Ruffles
Red Star Lavender
Via: Lavender Lovers
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