Topped lavender, also known as French lavender or bush lavender, gets its name from the showy bracts that sit on top of the flower heads. The term “topped” refers to these purple bracts, which add a striking visual element to the lavender plant.
The name Lavandula itself comes from the Latin word for “violet,” which is fitting considering the beautiful purple color of lavender flowers. This color has long been associated with lavender and is one of its defining characteristics.
In addition to its vibrant color, lavender has a rich history in the world of perfumery and soap making. The practice of adding perfumed lavenders to ancient soaps is where the name Lavandula’s connection to “to wash” comes from. This aromatic herb has been used for centuries to add fragrance to soaps, lotions, and other beauty products.
As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had the pleasure of growing and caring for lavender plants. Topped lavender, with its showy bracts, is particularly eye-catching in a garden. The purple bracts sit atop slender stems, creating a lovely contrast against the gray-green foliage.
When it comes to growing topped lavender, it is important to provide the plant with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Lavender is known for its love of sunshine and can thrive in hot, dry conditions. However, it is also important to water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep it healthy and vibrant.
One of the things I love most about topped lavender is its ability to attract pollinators to the garden. Bees and butterflies are particularly fond of lavender flowers, making it a great addition to any pollinator-friendly garden. Watching these insects flit from flower to flower is a joy and adds life and movement to the garden.
In terms of landscaping, topped lavender can be used in a variety of ways. Its compact, bushy growth habit makes it well-suited to borders and edging, where it can create a beautiful, fragrant border. It can also be planted in containers, allowing you to bring its beauty and fragrance to any outdoor space.
Furthermore, topped lavender can be used in herb gardens, where its aromatic leaves can be harvested and used in cooking and baking. Lavender adds a unique flavor to both sweet and savory dishes and can be a delightful addition to recipes.
In conclusion, topped lavender, also known as French lavender or bush lavender, is a beautiful and fragrant plant with striking purple bracts on top of its flower heads. Its name comes from the Latin words for ‘violet’ and ‘to wash,’ reflecting its vibrant color and historical use in perfumery and soap making. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have found topped lavender to be a versatile and visually appealing plant that can be used in various garden settings.
