Lavandin
(L. x intermedia)
General Description
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Hybrid between English lavender (L. angustifolia) and spike lavender (L. latifolia). Plants resulting from this cross usually produce sterile seeds and all new lavandin plants are obtained from cuttings.
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Robust plant, adapting readily to difficult climatic conditions and poor soil. Can withstand some below freezing temperatures but not continuous cold without some protective covering.
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Rounded with long, gray-green to gray leaves. Long spikes of highly fragrant flowers, from dark violet to white. Yields up to10 times the essential oil of L. angustifolia.
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Native to middle elevations. Can be pruned quite hard.
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Less susceptible to fungal attacks than English lavenders
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Aroma is sweet with slightly camphorous scent.
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The cultivar Abrialii was mainstay of French lavender oil industry until 1970s. when it was ravaged by a disease that caused plants to yellow and rapidly die.
The cultivar Grosso was discovered in 1972 as a result of attempts to replace Abrialii and has been the dominant cultivar since.
Bloom Period
Mid to late summer.
Uses
Cosmetic – used
in perfumery, toiletries
Household – cleaning products
Aroma – scented candles, room fresheners
Landscaping – in mass plantings or as individual showy speciments
Decorative – dried flowers, herb pillows, dried potpourris, etc.
Parts Used: Flowers, oil