The Mediterranean region boasts several species of lavender, a genus of the mint family. These herbaceous plants with scented flowers are not only captivating in gardens but also cultivated for their essential oils, which add fragrance to various products.

Lavender essential oil is historically significant, providing clarity and emotional stability. Its versatility makes it a superior choice for skin care compared to synthetic substitutes.

Lavender is cultivated globally in countries such as France, England, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, the US, and Canada. Its oil is mainly used in perfumery, soap-making, cleaning products, candles, and cooking. Valued for its germicidal and antibiotic properties, it can also help alleviate bee stings and migraines, heal burns, and repel moths from clothing.

Scientific studies have demonstrated that lavender's aroma has a calming effect on animal behavior, promoting deeper and longer sleep, as well as stabilizing emotions. Additionally, lavender oil is well-known for its excellent skin care and wound healing properties. It can reduce wrinkles, stimulate circulation, and aid in the recovery of wounds, making it an ideal choice for maintaining healthy and vibrant skin.

Lavandula, a botanical term derived from 'lavandus' and 'lavare' ("to be washed" and "to wash"), denotes lavender. For centuries, its fragrance has been used to alleviate grief and exhaustion, and to repel bugs, treat sunburns and heal the skin. Plus, lavender can be ingested and employed to drive away malicious spirits and to handle acne, earaches, depression, muscular pains, eczema, anxiety, psoriasis and migraines.

Records spanning over 2,500 years attest to the use of lavender, from the Egyptians utilizing it for mummification and fragrance to the Romans utilizing it for cooking, bathing, scenting, and healing. The Ancient Greeks relied on lavender for its soothing and antiseptic properties, and to combat sleeplessness and muscular pains. Lavender's distinct aroma has been linked to aiding sleep, relieving stress, and calming anxiety, making it a popular choice for modern and ancient cultures alike. 

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The Bible mentions lavender, which is also known as spikenard or nard, numerous times. Notably, a passage from John 12:3 reads, “Then Mary took a pound of expensive ointment of spikenard and anointed Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair; and the scent of the ointment filled the entire house.” Throughout history, lavender has recognized for its calming aroma and healing properties. Additionally, it's believed that Adam & Eve took lavender with them when they exited the Garden of Eden, and Mary's use of costly nard perfume in Bethany has granted the flower its celebrated scent (Mark 14:3). The Song of Solomon refers to spikenard as well: "The King is enthroned at His table, my spikenard gives off its aroma" (1.12) and "Your plants yield delightful fruits of pomegranates, with spikenard and camphire."

Phenomenal

Lauded for its fragrant, deep purple-blue flower spikes that attract pollinators, and its ample use in terms of both essential oil production and fresh cut flowers, Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ is a reliable, long-term addition to any garden, boasting up to 9 months of blooms that last for as long as 4 weeks. Plantings of Lavandula x intermedia ‘Phenomenal’ are incredibly low maintenance and virtually pest-resistant, requiring minimal inputs for maximum output of stunning flowers.

Grosso

Boasting a prolific output of essential oils, Lavandula x intermedia 'Grosso' is a French hybrid lavender offering dark blue flower spikes that produce a profuse bloom and potent scent. This strain is the main commercial cultivar for the production of lavender oil, and its long-blooming, aromatic nature has earned it recognition in the perfume sector. Its strength and extended flowering season make it a premier selection for gardeners and distillers, supplying a highly effective supply of essential oils suited to a variety of uses.

Munstead

Lavandula angustifolia ‘Munstead’ is of Mediterranean heritage and is smaller than ‘Grosso’ or ‘Phenomenal’ lavender. Its resistance to deer, insects and rabbits makes it a valuable addition, though beneficial pollinators, like bees and butterflies, are still attracted to it. This species is appreciated for its applications in aromatherapy, cooking and healing. A hardy addition to the garden, Munstead lavender is a reliable source of fragrance, flavor and health benefits. Its calming and restorative properties are highly prized. Munstead lavender is easy to care for, withstanding both heat and cold, and can bring tranquility, beauty and a lush aroma to both small and large gardens alike.