Names:

Lavender, Lavandula angustifolia, L. officinalis

Description:

Lavender is native to the Mediterranean coastline, parts of Africa and the Middle East, but it also grows in Australia and the United States. It is a perennial in the northern part of the regions, but may decline in zone 8 because of summer heat. Susceptible to leaf spot and root rot when soil is too wet. Oil from the blooms is commonly used in aromatherapy and topical products such as massage oils and lotions. English varieties are often used for culinary purposes.

Cultivation:

Propagation from seed can be a slow germination process so it is usually recommended to take cutting in the summer. Cut side shoots that have no buds. Roots will show in about 3 weeks. Plant spacing depends on variety usually 1-3 ft apart. In colder climates wait until spring or early summer to plant. Promote blooms with regular feeding and dead-heading. USDA hardiness zone 5-9

Light requirements:

Full Sun could benefit from afternoon shade in hot climates.

Soil requirements:

Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil. Sandy, sandy loam, or gravelly soils are ideal.

Watering:

Newly planted need every other day for the first week, then once or twice a week until roots are established. Hot regions may need more often

Established plants are drought tolerant and only need supplemental watering during dry spells. Mature plants only need about a 1/2 gallon every 2 weeks until buds form the 1 or 2 times a week during flowering. Regular watering can help produce more blooms.

Container watering need regular watering especially in summer because they can dry out quickly. Check the soil moisture about 1 inch down with your finger or a moisture meter before watering. In the winter keep the containers fairly dry to help the plant tolerate the cold weather.

Parts Used:

Flowers, and leaves

Herbal Actions:

Analgesic, antibacterial, antidepressant, antispasmodic, carminative, circulatory stimulant, diaphoretic, nervine

Energetics:

Cooling and drying

Medicinal Uses:

Said to provide pain relief from headaches, sprains, sores, and menstrual pain. Help with skin ailments like fungal infections, wounds, eczema, and acne. Topically can help heal bruises, and burns. Lavender tea may help with vomiting, nausea, upset stomach, and intestinal gas. With its calming effects it may help with anxiety, stress, restlessness, and depression. Also, thought to aid in insomnia, alopecia, dementia, and menopausal hot flashes.

Allies:

Marigolds, roses, allium, catmint, echinacea, oregano, rosemary, salvia, and yarrow

Cautions:

Generally regarded safe