English Lavender

Lavender is native to the Mediterranean and Arabic peninsula. Its history goes back 2500 years. It belongs to the plant family Lamiaceae and is valued for its beauty, fragrance and healing properties. It was originally cultivated by the Ancient Greeks and Romans, who used it to scent their beds, clothes, baths and hair. The word comes from the Latin "lavare" meaning "to wash”.

There are approximately 39 varieties of Lavander. Lavandula angustifolia is one of the best pollinators to attract bees and butterflies and is used in planting schemes to attract wildlife. As well as being grown as a plant, it is globally cultivated for its use as an essential oil. In addition, it is also grown for its use as a dried flower. Globally, Lavender continues to be one of the most popular shrubs and is cultivated across the world.

Lavender is a Meditteranean plant and thrives in a sunny position. It is drought tolerant so water sparingly, as it will not do well in waterlogged soil. It is pretty hardy but dislikes cold and damp spots. Plant it in well-drained soil.

The oil from lavender has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Lavandula angustifolia is one of the best pollinators to attract bees and butterflies.