Lavender, the Useful Plant

How often have you heard the saying “stop and smell the roses”? The same idea can easily be applied to many other plants, especially lavender. This beloved herb encourages people to slow down and appreciate its fragrance, appearance, and calming presence.

One of the most enjoyable areas in the University of Tennessee Gardens in Knoxville is the Herb Spiral. This creative garden feature not only showcases a variety of herbs but also highlights the beauty of lavender growing among the stones. The specific lavender found there is Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas). With its unique “rabbit ear” flower shape, the plant has a cheerful appearance that naturally brings a smile. It is also a favorite among bees and other pollinators.

Lavender belongs to the genus Lavandula, which contains around 45 species and more than 450 named varieties. Plant breeders continue to develop new selections, creating an impressive range of flowering periods, leaf characteristics, and flower colors.

Different Types of Lavender

Many gardeners are familiar with English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), which includes about 39 cultivated varieties. Also called common lavender or true lavender, it is one of the most widely grown types.

French lavender (Lavandula dentata), sometimes known as fringed lavender, is another popular variety. Its name comes from the toothed edges of its leaves. Portuguese lavender (Lavandula latifolia) produces tall flower spikes and is especially valued for its strong fragrance.

A widely grown hybrid is Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia), which is created by crossing English lavender and Portuguese lavender. This hybrid combines the cold tolerance of English lavender with the heat resistance of Portuguese lavender.

Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas) is sometimes incorrectly called French lavender, but it is also known more appropriately as butterfly lavender because of its distinctive wing-shaped flower bracts. This variety is commonly used in decorative crafts such as potpourri.

Lavender Comes in Many Colors

Lavender is not limited to the familiar shades of purple and blue. This versatile herb is available in many other flower colors, including violet-blue, pink, pale rose, white, and even yellow.

Several varieties perform well in Tennessee gardens, including ‘Provence’, ‘Hidcote’, ‘Phenomenal’, and ‘Munstead’. These cultivars offer different growth habits and characteristics while maintaining lavender’s famous beauty and fragrance.

Uses of Lavender

Like many herbs, lavender has a wide range of practical uses. Its relaxing scent, silvery-gray foliage, and delicate flowers make it popular for producing essential oils, candles, soaps, floral waters, cooking ingredients, and handmade products.

For gardeners looking for a fun creative project, making a lavender wand can be a rewarding experience. Many guides are available to help create these fragrant bundles, which are both decorative and useful.

Lavender and Aromatherapy

One of the most common applications of lavender is aromatherapy. Lavandula angustifolia is the preferred species for producing essential oils.

However, essential oils should be used carefully. Applying undiluted oil directly to the skin may cause irritation for some individuals. A safer approach is to mix a small amount of essential oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil. Anyone creating homemade blends should research proper dilution guidelines before use.

Research on Lavender’s Benefits

Scientific studies in healthcare environments have explored lavender’s possible effects on relaxation, stress reduction, and sleep improvement.

A 2019 study examined lavender oil patches used by patients in a hematology-oncology setting. Participants wore a lavender-infused patch attached to their clothing during the evening and overnight hours, allowing them to experience the aroma while sleeping. The patch was removed the following morning.

Although the study involved a limited number of participants, some patients reported improved sleep quality and reduced feelings of anxiety while using the lavender patches. Additional research is continuing to investigate lavender’s potential benefits for people receiving chemotherapy or those experiencing conditions such as dementia, headaches, stress, anxiety, and sleep difficulties.

Growing Lavender Successfully

In Tennessee, the most commonly cultivated lavender varieties are English, French, and Spanish types. English lavender generally handles colder conditions better, while Spanish lavender is more tolerant of heat. Choosing the right variety often depends on the local climate and growing environment.

Most lavender plants share similar growing needs. They perform best in locations with full sunlight and soil that drains quickly. A neutral to slightly alkaline soil is ideal.

Improving drainage by adding sand or fine gravel can help lavender thrive. Avoid planting lavender too deeply; the crown of the plant should remain slightly above the soil surface, with soil gently raised around the base to encourage water to flow away.

Because lavender enjoys warm conditions, adding pea gravel around the plant can help reflect heat upward while also creating an attractive finishing touch around the herb.

Why Grow Lavender?

Growing lavender offers many rewards. It is attractive, durable, fragrant, and useful in countless ways. The plant’s popularity has even inspired lavender festivals and garden events that celebrate its beauty.

Like many herbs, lavender continues to reveal new qualities and uses. Whether grown for its flowers, scent, pollinators, or practical applications, lavender remains a truly valuable and fascinating plant.