Ready to spice up your garden game? Join us in the aromatic world of lavender with a guide that spills the tea on different lavender types, ensuring your garden is rocking the perfect match for your zone and vibes.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the distinctions in appearance, fragrance, and adaptability among 6 types of lavender.
By better understanding this diverse range of plants, you’ll be able to select a lavender type that is perfect for your situation.
- How Many Types Of Lavender Are There?
- Which Type Of Lavender Is Best?
- Which Is Better: French Or English Lavender?
- Which Is The Strongest-Smelling Lavender?
- Which Country Has The Best Lavender?
- The Best 6 Types Of Lavender
- Conclusion
How Many Types Of Lavender Are There?
There are numerous varieties of lavender, and the exact number can be challenging to pinpoint due to ongoing hybridization and cultivation.
However, several well-known lavender species and hybrids are commonly recognized.
Here are the most common 6 types of lavender:
- English lavenders
- Spanish lavenders (Stoechas)
- French lavenders (Dentata)
- Arabian (Subnuda)
- Indian (Chaetoctachys)
- Pterostoechas
Each lavender type has its own specialties, aesthetics, and uses. We’ll go into detail on each one later in the article.
Which Type Of Lavender Is Best?
Determining the “best” type of lavender is subjective and depends entirely on your specific needs and preferences.
Each variety has its own characteristics that make it suitable for different purposes.
The best type for you depends on your specific goals.
For example, if you’re into cooking or making cosmetics, English lavender might be the best choice for you.
If you’re looking for a visually appealing addition to your garden, Spanish or French lavender could be more suitable.
Additionally, we strongly recommend you consider factors like climate, intended use, and aesthetic preferences to determine the best lavender for your purposes.
Which Is Better: French Or English Lavender?
Despite their similarities, both French and English Lavender do have some distinct differences that separate the two.
The debate of which variety is better relies on the preference of the gardener.
Here are some key differences between French and English Lavender:
For starters, French lavender has smaller, stubbier flower spikes.
English lavender has long flower spikes.
But their differences go beyond just appearances.
French lavender is noted for having a more intense scent with pine notes.
French lavender is often used to scent cleaning products for this reason.
On the other hand, English lavender’s scent is lighter and sweeter.
It is popular for perfumes and aromatherapy for this reason.
If you are seeking lavender plants for their aroma, then you may find English lavender’s scent more palatable than French lavender.
Both English and French lavender are resilient, hardy plants that are capable of withstanding both warm and cool temperatures.
Which Is The Strongest-Smelling Lavender?
When selecting the strongest-smelling lavender, the key is to seek lavender with high traces of camphor.
Camphor is a chemical that is known for its strong pine, woody scent.
Out of the 6 types of lavender we’ve previously mentioned, French lavender has a high amount of camphor.
For this reason, French lavender is known for its very strong pine aroma.
In addition, Lavandula x intermedia, otherwise known as lavandin, has a very strong scent.
Lavandin is a hybrid of two varieties of English lavender, Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia.
Which Country Has The Best Lavender?
Lavender is cultivated in various countries, each offering unique growing conditions that can influence the quality and characteristics of the plants.
However, we could narrow France down as the country with the best lavender.
The Provence region in southern France is famous for its lavender production.
The countryside is abundant with beautiful, fragrant lavender in the mid-summer.
These lavender plants are grown for both aesthetic and commercial purposes.
The Best 6 Types Of Lavender
From classic favorites to exotic varieties, each lavender has its unique charm and therapeutic benefits.
Join us in exploring the diverse world of lavender and discover the distinct qualities that set these six varieties apart.
1. English Lavender
1.1. Lavandula angustifolia syn L.vera, L.spica, L.officinalis (English lavender)
| Description: |
| Lavandula angustifolia is one of the types of lavender that grows up to a height of 3.3 feet. Its leaves range from lace to oblanceolate shaped and are between 2 inches and 0.2 inches in length and width, respectively. The foliage begins white but matures to a green hue. Its purple blooms measure 0.4 inches in length. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows well in full sun and droughty conditions |
| Uses: |
| Can be used for ornamental and decorative purposes. This variety is recommended for culinary uses. |
| USDA zone: |
| 5 to 10 |
1.2. Lavandula alba
| Description: |
| This type of lavender is the same variety as the L. angustifolia but with white flowers. Lavandula alba is a shrub plant that grows up to a height of 3.3 feet. Its leaves range from lace to oblanceolate shaped and are between 2 inches in length and 0.2 inches in width. The foliage starts white and matures to a green hue as the plant ages. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows well in full sun and is tolerable of droughty conditions. |
| Uses: |
| Can be used in the garden as an ornamental. Can also be dried for decorative use. |
| USDA zone: |
| 5 to 10 |
1.3. Lavandula angustifolia ssp. Angustifolia
| Description: |
| This type of lavender reaches a height of up to 3.3 feet tall. Its leaves and branches are gray-green in color while the flowers are light violet. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows best in full sun and tolerates drought. |
| Uses: |
| Can be used in the garden as a hedge. It is often harvested and used for its strong aroma as floral decor. |
| USDA zone: |
| 5 to 10 |
1.4. Lavandula angustifolia ssp. Pyrenaica
| Description: |
| L. angustifolia ssp. Pyrenaica is a shrub plant that can grow up to 3.3 feet tall. Its gray-green leaves and branches grow upright with vibrant purple flower spikes. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows well in full sun, and can tolerate drought. |
| Uses: |
| Can be grown as hedges or as an ornamental in the garden. |
| USDA zone: |
| 5 to 10 |
1.5. Lavandula lanata
| Description: |
| Lavandula lanata is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 3.3 feet tall. Identifiable by the silver hairs on on its leaves, giving it a wooly appearance. The flowers are deep purple and have a stereotypical lavender scent. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows best in full sun, tolerant of drought. |
| Uses: |
| Can be grown in the garden for its unique appearance. Lavandula lanata can also be harvested for its fragrance. |
| USDA zone: |
| 5 to 10 |
1.6. Lavandula latifolia syn. L. spica
| Description: |
| These types of lavender grow between 12 to 31 inches in height. They have evergreen leaves that are between 1.2 to 3.1 inches in length and 0.2 to 0.3 inches in width. The flowers are pale purple and blossom between June to September. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows well in full sun, tolerant of drought. |
| Uses: |
| Because of its high camphor content, this lavender variety is harvested for its strong aroma. Additionally, it can be used in the garden as a deterrent for pests. |
| USDA zone: |
| 5 to 10 |
2. Spanish Lavenders (Stoechas)
2.1. Lavandula stoechas ssp. Stoechas
| Description: |
| Lavandula stoechas ssp. Stoechas grows up to a height of approximately 35 inches. It has round, broad bracts. Foliage is green with pink-purple flower spikes. On top of the flower spikes are additional bracts that are the same color as the flower. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows best in full sun. Prefers warm temperatures and is tolerant of drought. |
| Uses: |
| Can be used decoratively in the garden. Because of its strong aroma, it can also be harvested and pressed into essential oil. |
| USDA zone: |
| 7 to 9 |
2.2. Lavandula stoechas ssp stoechas ‘alba’
| Description: |
| This is a white-flowering version of the original L. stoechas. Instead of purple flowers, this produces white flowers and white flower bracts. Grows 36 inches tall with gray-green foliage and round bracts. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows best in full sun. Prefers warm temperatures and is tolerant of drought. |
| Uses: |
| Can be used decoratively in the garden. Because of its amazing smell, you can pick it and press it into essential oil. |
| USDA zone: |
| 7 to 9 |
2.3. Lavandula stoechas ssp. Sampaiana
| Description: |
| Lavandula stoechas ssp. Sampaiana grows up to 30 inches in height. It has a compact, shrub growth habit. These types of lavender have upright stems with vibrant purple flower spikes. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows best in full sun. Prefers warm temperatures and is tolerant of drought. |
| Uses: |
| Used as an ornamental in the garden. |
| USDA zone: |
| 7 to 9 |
2.4. Lavandula viridis
| Description: |
| Lavandula viridis grows between 20 to 28 inches tall. Branches start woody towards the base and transition to leafy towards the top. Its flowers begin white and mature to a brown hue. Has an almost lemony-citrus scent. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Can withstand temperatures as low as 23°F. Thrives in full sun or dappled light with minimal shade. |
| Uses: |
| Harvested and turned into essential oils due to its high oil content. Can be used as a beneficial companion plant due to its ability to attract pollinators. |
| USDA zone: |
| 7 to 9 |
3. French Lavenders
3.1. Lavandula dentata (French lavender)
| Description: |
| Lavandula dentata is one of the most common types of French lavender. It grows between 12 inches to 39 inches tall. The branches and leaves are gray-green and the flowers are purple. Lavandula dentata has a strong aroma due to the presence of camphor. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows best in full sun to partial shade. For optimal growth, trim 50% of the foliage each spring post the coldest weather period. Concurrently, enrich the soil with agricultural lime and apply a general fertilizer. Notably, this lavender variety flourishes in warmer and more humid conditions. |
| Uses: |
| Harvested for its camphor fragrance. Also used as hedges in the garden. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 11 |
3.2. Lavandula dentata var. candicans
| Description: |
| Lavandula dentata var. candicans is a shrub that grows between 12 inches to 39 inches tall. Its branches are more gray in hue as opposed to the original L dentata. Its flowers are a pale lavender-blue. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows best in full sun to partial shade. Tolerant of drought. |
| Uses: |
| Harvested for its fragrance. Also used as hedges or as an ornamental. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 11 |
4. Arabian (Subnuda)
4.1. Lavandula subnuda
| Description: |
| Lavandula subnuda is a shrub that grows up to 39 inches in height. Herbaceous plants with fertile bracts that arrange in a spiral formation. Adult plants tend to lack leaves. Ist foliage and branches are gray-green with pale purple flowers. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Thrives in full sun and warm climates. Tolerant of droughty conditions. |
| Uses: |
| Ornamental, culinary herb, or essential oil. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 11 |
4.2. Lavandula macra
| Description: |
| Lavandula macra is a shrub that grows up to 39 inches in height. Foliage and branches are gray-green with vibrant purple flowers. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Thrives in full sun and warm climates. Tolerant of droughty conditions. |
| Uses: |
| Ornamental, culinary herb, or essential oil. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 11 |
4.3. Lavandula aristibracteat
| Description: |
| This type of lavender grows up to 39 inches in height. Foliage and branches are gray-green with fragrant purple flowers. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Thrives in full sun and warm climates. Tolerant of droughty conditions. |
| Uses: |
| Culinary herb, cut flowers, ornamental. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 11 |
5. Indian (Chaetoctachys)
5.1. Lavandula bipinnata
| Description: |
| Lavandula bipinnata is a herbaceous plant with branches peduncles and spikes. The stems and leaves are thick and do not bear resemblance to a typical lavender plant. The flowers are light blue. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Thrives in hot, sunny climates. Tolerates droughty conditions. |
| Uses: |
| Ornamental, hedges. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 11 |
5.2. Lavandula gibsonii
| Description: |
| Lavandula gibsonii is a herbaceous plant with branches peduncles and spikes. Both its stems and leaves are thick and do not bear a resemblance to a typical lavender plant. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows in full sun and warm temperatures. Tolerates droughty conditions. |
| Uses: |
| Ornamental, hedges. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 11 |
6. Pterostoechas
6.1. Lavandula multifida
| Description: |
| Lavandula multifida grows up to 24 inches tall. It has a rapid growth habit. Continuously blooms purple flowers. Gray-green foliage and fern-like leaves. Develops woody branches where it is winter-hardy. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Enjoys full sun and warm climates. |
| Uses: |
| Ornamental, hedges, edging, essential oil, culinary use. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 10 |
6.2. Lavandula canariensis
| Description: |
| Lavandula canariensis is a small shrub plant with gray-green leaves that have a fern shape. Its flower spikes are light purple. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Prefers full sunlight with warm temperatures. Tolerates drought. |
| Uses: |
| Ornamental, essential oil. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 10 |
6.3. Lavandula pinnata
| Description: |
| Lavandula pinnata is a small shrub growing up to 39 inches tall. It has green, fern-like leaves and purple flower spikes that bloom during the summer. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows best in full sun. Tolerant of drought and poor soil. Withstands temperatures down to approximately 23 degrees Fahrenheit, but it’s preferable to avoid freezing conditions. |
| Uses: |
| Ornamental, borders, culinary herb, pest deterrent. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 10 |
6.4. Lavandula pubescens
| Description: |
| These types of lavender grow between 24 to 47 inches tall. Foliage is green with fern-like leaves and purple flower spikes. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows well in full sun and warm temperatures. Tolerant of drought. |
| Uses: |
| Ornamental, hedges, essential oil. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 10 |
6.5. Lavandula abrotanoides
| Description: |
| Lavandula abrotanoides is a shrub plant that grows between 24 inches and 39 inches. It has gray-green foliage with abundant leaves and purple flower spikes. |
| Growing conditions: |
| Grows best in full sun and warm temperatures. Tolerant of drought. |
| Uses: |
| Ornamental, hedges. |
| USDA zone: |
| 8 to 10 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, there’s a lot to consider when choosing the right type of lavender.
Whether you’re looking to add lavender for decorative, culinary, or cosmetic purposes, there’s a lavender for you.
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