Lavender is the smile of Provence
Date
Welcome to our blog about lavender: the fragrant purple flower that has been known for centuries for its soothing, relaxing properties.
In this blog we take a closer look at the history of lavender growing in Provence, the different types of lavender that are grown and where they grow, the therapeutic effects of lavender and how it can be used to create a relaxing atmosphere at home.
We will also talk about how lavender oil is produced and which products are made from this versatile plant, from perfumes and soaps to essential oils and herbal teas. Whether you are a lavender lover or simply want to learn more about this beautiful plant, we tell you everything you need to know to dive into the world of lavender.
The history of lavender growing in Provence goes back to Roman times. The Romans discovered the plant's fragrant qualities and used it as a perfume and a medicinal plant. The name "lavender" comes from the Latin word "lavare", meaning "to wash", because the Romans used lavender to scent their baths and washing water. In the Middle Ages, lavender was used as a medicinal plant to treat all kinds of ailments, from headaches and insect bites to nervous disorders. Lavender growing began to spread across Provence in the 18th century, when monks started cultivating it to make perfume and soap.
From the 19th century onwards, lavender growing spread further and further and became an important economic activity in the region. It was especially popular on the high plateaux of Provence, where conditions were ideal for the plant. In the 1930s and 1940s, however, lavender growing was threatened by the rise of synthetic perfumes and by the Second World War. Many farmers gave up lavender and switched to other crops. But since the 1980s, lavender growing has been on the rise again, mainly because of growing interest in natural and organic products. Today lavender is an important part of the Provençal economy and draws thousands of tourists to the region every year.
Lavandula angustifolia of de echte lavendel
Lavandula angustifolia, or true lavender
Lavender: a versatile family
Did you know that there are actually 40 different species of lavender?
In almost 90% of cases, the lavender fields of Provence are planted with a hybrid of two lavender species: true lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia). This cross produced the sterile lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia), which is especially popular in the perfume industry. But as we said, there are many more types of lavender.
You are probably wondering what exactly the differences between these species are?
Although most lavenders share similar properties, their scent profiles and chemical compositions vary. This can affect how they are used in aromatherapy and medicine. Whether you are a fan of the gentle scent of true lavender or have fallen for the exotic aromas of the hybrid, lavandin, one thing is certain: lavender remains one of the most versatile and best-loved herb families in the world.
"Lavandula angustifolia", also known as true lavender or English lavender, grows wild on the high plateaux of Sault and Valensole in Provence, but is now also grown elsewhere. It flowers from mid-June to mid-July. It is one of the most popular and versatile kinds of lavender: a small, shrubby plant that can grow up to 1 metre tall and produces beautiful, sweet-smelling purple flowers.
Lavandula angustifolia has been used since ancient times for its calming properties and is often used in aromatherapy and skincare products. The essential oil, extracted from the flowers, is known for its soothing properties and is often used to reduce stress and anxiety.
As for growing conditions, Lavandula angustifolia does best in well-drained soil and full sun. It is a hardy plant and copes well with cold climates. There are several cultivars of Lavandula angustifolia, each with its own characteristics, such as different flower colours and scents. Over time, though, the plant can become less productive and less fragrant, so it is often recommended to replant every 10 years to keep a healthy, fragrant lavender garden.
In short, Lavandula angustifolia is a wonderful plant to have in your garden, for its lovely flowers, delightful scent and many uses.
Enkele lavendel soorten
A few lavender species
Another species is "Lavandula x intermedia", also called lavandin (sometimes sold as "French lavender" in Dutch-speaking countries). It is a hybrid of true lavender and spike lavender. Lavandin has a strong, spicy scent and is mainly used in cleaning products and soap.
Then there is "Lavandula stoechas", also known as butterfly lavender or Spanish lavender. This species has a stronger scent than true lavender and also looks different.
Lavandula stoechas is native to the Mediterranean and is recognisable by its striking flower spikes, which look like little purple or pink crowns. The plant can grow up to 60 centimetres tall and has narrow, grey-green leaves.
An interesting feature of butterfly lavender is that it flowers in spring, while other lavenders usually flower in summer. It also has a unique scent that differs from other lavenders; some describe it as a mix of camphor, rosemary and lavender.
Unlike Lavandula angustifolia, butterfly lavender is not widely used in aromatherapy, but it is often grown as an ornamental plant for its eye-catching flowers and scent. The plant is also sometimes used to make potpourri and scented sachets. Note that butterfly lavender is not hardy and only survives in warm climates. In colder areas it is usually grown as an annual.
Lavandula stoechas of vlinderlavendel
Lavandula stoechas, or butterfly lavender
Spike lavender has a stronger scent than Lavandula angustifolia and is therefore widely used to make essential oil. The oil from this lavender is often used in perfumes and cosmetics and as an insect repellent.
Spike lavender, also known as Lavandula latifolia, is a beautiful member of the lavender family that stands out for its larger, broader leaves. It grows slightly taller than true lavender, up to 80 to 90 cm. Its flower spikes appear about four weeks later than those of true lavender, in August. The plant prefers warmer temperatures and therefore does not grow above 1,000 metres. Its scent is less floral and more camphor-like. It is a lovely addition to any garden or herb garden.
Lavandula latifolia is also an important plant in traditional Mediterranean medicine. It is used to treat headaches, digestive problems and respiratory complaints.
Lavandula latifolia of spijklavendel
Lavandula latifolia, or spike lavender
Pruning
The best times to prune lavender are April and September. But be careful: if you still have night frosts in April, wait a little before you start cutting. You don't want the pruning cuts to freeze and damage the plant unnecessarily.
Autumn pruning is important to keep your lavender in good shape and to stop the bushes going bare or falling apart. But if your plant is still flowering well into October thanks to a warm late summer, it is better not to prune it any more and to wait until spring. That way you protect freshly pruned plants against any (night) frost.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your secateurs and get to work. With a little love, care and good pruning technique, you will soon be enjoying a beautiful little field of flowering lavender in your garden.
Lavender oil: the ultimate ingredient for natural skin and hair care
Lavender is one of the most popular plants for natural skin and hair care. Its purple flowers smell wonderful and are known for their relaxing, soothing properties. But did you know you can also make a great oil from lavender with all kinds of uses? In this blog you will learn how to make your own lavender oil and how to use it for glowing skin and healthy hair.
How do you make lavender oil?
Making lavender oil is easy and needs only a few ingredients and tools.
What you need:
- Dried lavender flowers
- Organic sunflower oil or, for example, almond oil
- A glass jar with a lid
- A fine sieve or muslin cloth
- A dark glass bottle with a dropper
How to do it:
- Fill the glass jar about three-quarters full with dried lavender flowers.
- Add the organic sunflower oil until the flowers are completely covered.
- Stir well and close the jar tightly with the lid.
- Keep the jar in a warm, dark place, such as a cupboard or a shelf in the kitchen.
- Leave the mixture to infuse for at least 4 to 6 weeks, giving the jar a little shake every day.
- Strain the mixture through a fine sieve or muslin into another glass jar or bowl.
- Pour the strained lavender oil into a dark glass bottle and it is ready to use.
And voilà, you have made your own lavender oil! Store the oil in a cool, dark place. With these tips you can get started making your own lavender oil and enjoy all its many benefits.
Lavendelolie
Lavender oil
Lavender in the kitchen
Making lavender sugar is the perfect way to add a hint of lavender to your favourite sweet treats. And it is very easy to make yourself!
What you need:
- Dried lavender flowers
- Granulated sugar
- A jar that closes tightly
How to do it:
Start by filling your jar with a layer of sugar and then cover it with a layer of dried lavender flowers. Repeat until the jar is almost full and close it tightly. Now leave the mixture for a few weeks so that the sugar can absorb the lavender aroma.
When you are ready to use your lavender sugar, sieve out the flowers. The sugar now has a subtle lavender aroma and is ready to use in recipes such as crème brûlée, or in a nice cup of tea.
Tip: store your lavender sugar in a cool, dry place.
With this home-made lavender sugar you can give any sweet treat a little extra flair. Enjoy!
Lavendel ijsthee
Lavender iced tea
Lavender tips for the home
- Make a cup of lavender tea with fresh or dried flowers. Lavender tea is calming and is said to be good for the liver and lungs.
- Put a few fresh or dried flowers in an ice cube for lemonade or iced tea.
- Garnish a dessert with lavender, such as ice cream, yoghurt or quark.
- Bake a cake with lavender flowers or make jam with lavender in it.
- Lavender oil (home-made or shop-bought) has soothing and disinfecting properties. You can apply it to a mosquito bite or a minor burn, for example.
- Fill linen bags with dried lavender flowers to freshen up your wardrobe or bedroom. The lovely scent also keeps insects such as mosquitoes and flies away and helps you sleep well.
- Boil 100 grams of lavender flowers in 1 litre of water and leave to cool. Add the lavender water to your bath or the children's paddling pool for extra relaxation and enjoyment.
Buying lavender plants
If you are looking for lavender, it is important to know which type you want.
Tips:
- If you buy it at a garden centre, check that the plant has not been sprayed with insecticides.
- Pay close attention to the name and characteristics of the lavender you buy, so you can be sure you have the right type for your purposes.
Lavender is more than just a fragrant plant in your garden. It is a symbol of peace, relaxation and beauty. With its purple flowers and calming scent, it invites a moment of contemplation and reflection. So immerse yourself in the enchanting world of lavender and create your own oasis of peace and beauty.
Que votre jardinage soit joyeux, relaxant et plaisant! (May your gardening be joyful, relaxing and enjoyable!)