How to Grow and Care for Lavender

The english lavender is a common flowering plant originally native to the Mediterranean region. Today, it is often used in scented products such as candles, oils, perfumes, soaps, and house sprays. The scent also has a deterrent effect against clothing moths.

French lavender (Lavandula dentata), also referred to as fringed lavender, is a tall, flowering, and fragrant plant. French lavender is native to the Mediterranean. The distinctive purple flowers of this species emit a strong, recognizable fragrance. It is often grown as an ornamental plant and is used in the production of essential oils, beauty products, candles, and household cleaning products.

The evergreen- topped lavender shrubs' flowers bloom in spring and summer, attracting bees and butterflies. They do well in landscaping or in pots. The flowers and leaves are fragrant and can be used for potpourri and essential oil. Interestingly, they also find use in insecticides.

Lavandin (Lavandula intermedia) is a hybrid variety of lavender that's popular for gardens and commercial production. Its fragrant, showy blossoms attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators. It blooms profusely in summer and its dried flowers retain their vibrant color and soothing lavender fragrance. Perfect for dried flower arrangements, potpourri and sachets. Thrives in full sun with moist, well-drained soil.

Fern-leaf lavender (Lavandula multifida) is notable for its showy violet flowers that bloom atop long, woolly gray stems. The flowers always bloom in summer but can appear year-round in warmer climates. With "lavender" in the name, it should be no surprise that the plant puts off a pleasing aroma. And as an added bonus, fern-leaf lavender also attracts butterflies.