Lavender - Lavandula angustifolia - purple

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), also known as English lavender or true lavender, is a purple-flowered plant that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Here are some important characteristics and a variety description:

1. **Appearance**: Lavandula angustifolia typically grows to a height of 60-80 cm. Its leaves are narrow, gray-green in color, and hairy, which helps retain moisture.

2. **Flowers**: The flowers of the plant are purple and form spike-like inflorescences. The flowering usually occurs in the summer, between June and August.

3. **Fragrance**: Lavender has a distinctive, sweet, and spicy fragrance due to the essential oils it contains.

4. **Climate and Soil**: Lavender prefers sunny, warm locations and thrives best in well-drained soil. Sandy or calcium- and magnesium-rich soils are ideal for it.

5. **Uses**: Lavender is popular in gardens as an ornamental plant, but its essential oil is also widely used in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and for flavoring foods.