

How to identify Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender is a perennial with a height range between 1 to 4 feet (30 to 120 cm) and a spread of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm). The green foliage is aromatic, which characterizes the genus, and its shape can vary across different species. During summer, lavender produces conspicuous flowers that are attractive to bees, with their appearance also varying by species.
Aromatic gray-green leaves with fine hairs, essential oils for identification.
Square stem with angular appearance, green-gray coloration, up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall.
Purple to lilac flowers on spikes, tubular calyx and corolla with 5 lobes.
Conspicuous 0.4 to 1 inch (1 to 2.5 cm) flowers emitting strong fragrance.
Ovoid to oblong fruit capsules, 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3 to 6 mm), releasing seeds.
The leaves of lavender are typically gray-green in color, adorned with fine hairs that give a soft texture. They vary in form, appearing either simple or pinnately toothed, and can be intricately dissected in some species. Leaf shapes include both elongated and narrow forms, measuring approximately 1.5 to 2.5 inches (4 to 6 cm) in length. The essential oils contained within the leaves are a distinctive feature, contributing to their aromatic properties essential for identification.
Lavender flowers typically form whorls on spikes rising above the foliage. They are predominantly purple to lilac, with some cultivars displaying white blossoms. The tubular calyx and corolla each exhibit 5 lobes, contributing to the flower’s distinctive appearance. These flowers generally measure about 0.4 to 1 inch (1 to 2.5 cm) in length, and they emit a strong, pleasing fragrance. Blooming primarily in mid to late summer, they attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
The stem of lavender is distinguished by its square shape and green-gray coloration. It often exhibits a somewhat angular appearance, typical of the mint family. The texture is slightly rough, and the stems can measure up to 2 feet (60 cm) in height. They are typically less than an inch (2.5 cm) thick. The branching pattern is opposite, with newer stems appearing softer and green, gradually becoming woody and grayish as they age.
The fruit of lavender is a type of dry capsule that typically does not catch the eye for ornamental purposes. Upon reaching maturity, these fruits consist of small, dry, brown structures which house the seeds. The capsules are generally ovoid to oblong in shape and measure about 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3 to 6 mm) in length. The exterior of the capsule has a fine, papery texture and might split into sections when the seeds are ripe, releasing them for potential germination. These characteristic fruit capsules follow the flowering period and are a crucial part for the plant's reproductive cycle.
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.
Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.
The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.
The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.
The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.
Scientific Classification of Lavender