Well, of course it’s lavender – or more accurately, Lavandula.

Nothing else in the world smells like lavender. Savvy designers know to plant it where it will be brushed against in passing, releasing that inimitable scent.

We grow a dozen varieties of this classic Mediterranean-born beauty. We can’t do justice to them all, so here’s a snapshot of three favorite modern introductions. They all perform best in full sun, and are hardy in USDA Zones 5 – 9.

Lavandula angustifolia Big Time Blue PP24827 

This Dutch-bred beauty boasts extra-large bicolor blooms with violet petals and dark purple sepals. One of its parents is the classic ‘Hidcote’. 

Height: 18 – 24”.

Lavandula a. Platinum Blonde PP23834 

Striking! Broad fragrant leaves are gray-green with prominent gold edging. A compact grower with soft blue flowers. Height 16 – 24”.

Lavandula xintermedia Phenomenal PP24193 

The name says it all! It’s also called ‘Niko’ and Pure Platinum, but we like Phenomenal. Long, lavender-purple flower spikes on vigorous mounds of silvery foliage. Very tolerant of heat and humidity. 

Height 24 – 32”.

The Game of the Name

Lavandula is derived from the Latin for “wash.” The plant’s extracts have been used for centuries to impart a clean, fresh scent to body, hair, garments and dwellings. From ancient Hebrew anointing oil to New Age aromatherapy, that wonderful fragrance is instinctively associated with vigor and renewal. 

Follow your nose. Follow the money. Follow this link to order your Lavandula of choice. They come to you in easy-planting, fast-growing 72-cell liners from Emerald Coast Growers – your easy choice!