When it comes to lavender, there are several different types that you can choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Let’s explore some of the most popular types of lavender:
1. English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): This is the most common type of lavender and is widely used in gardens and for its essential oil. English lavender has narrow, gray-green leaves and produces compact spikes of fragrant flowers in shades of purple, blue, and white. It is known for its soothing aroma and is often used in aromatherapy.
2. French Lavender (Lavandula dentata): French lavender is a bit different in appearance from English lavender. It has toothed, gray-green leaves and long, slender flower spikes topped with large, showy bracts. The flowers are typically a vibrant purple color and have a sweet, slightly fruity scent. French lavender is often used in landscaping and as a border plant.
3. Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas): Spanish lavender is distinct with its unique “rabbit ear” bracts on top of the flower spikes. These bracts are often a contrasting color to the flowers, which can be purple, pink, or white. Spanish lavender has a strong, resinous fragrance and is commonly used in potpourri and sachets.
4. Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia): Lavandin is a hybrid lavender that is a cross between English lavender and spike lavender. It is known for its larger size and stronger fragrance compared to English lavender. Lavandin typically has gray-green leaves and long flower spikes with densely packed blooms in shades of purple, blue, and white. It is often grown for its essential oil, which is used in a variety of products such as soaps and candles.
5. Hidcote Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’): Hidcote lavender is a popular cultivar of English lavender. It is valued for its compact size and deep purple flowers. Hidcote lavender is often used in borders, rock gardens, and as a low hedge. Its fragrance is highly aromatic and soothing.
6. Munstead Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Munstead’): Munstead lavender is another cultivar of English lavender that is well-loved for its fragrance and compact growth habit. It produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers and has gray-green foliage. Munstead lavender is commonly used in herb gardens, borders, and containers.
It’s important to note that there are many other lavender varieties and cultivars available, each with its own unique characteristics. When choosing a lavender type for your garden, consider factors such as climate, desired fragrance, flower color, and growth habit. Experimenting with different types of lavender can be a fun and rewarding experience for any gardener.
