Common lavender, with narrow leaves, is a semi-shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It was introduced to Europe by the Romans, who used it for cosmetic purposes. The flowers, with a pleasant, fresh fragrance, were used in soap making or added to bath water.
Levantica grows in the form of a tuft. The fragrant flowers, a bluish-violet color, are arranged in false spikes and appear in June-July. Sometimes, a second flowering occurs in September.
This plant is drought-resistant and prefers dry, calcareous, semi-compact soils. It has high heat requirements but also withstands winter frosts very well. It is demanding not only in terms of heat but also light, so sunny locations are chosen for its cultivation.
Vast lavender fields are found in Provence, in southern France. Lavender seedlings can be purchased from specialty stores and planted in rockeries, terraces, or rose beds, but it is also very decorative as a solitary plant. Plant at least 50 cm apart in rows, as they form large bushes.
If planted as a hedge, formative pruning is applied. Otherwise, shortening is done in autumn or spring, at two-thirds of the plant's height, taking care not to cut the lignified part of the stem, as we are not sure it will trigger the vegetation process. For older specimens, rejuvenation pruning is applied after flowering.
Although it tolerates low temperatures well, planting in the more sheltered areas of the garden and covering the soil with bark, sawdust, or fir branches is recommended.
Propagation is done by stem cuttings or by dividing the bush for older specimens. Flower harvesting is done when the plants are in full bloom: flower stems are cut, tied into bunches and hung upside down in a cool place.
Chamomile tea has a calming effect on the nervous system and is often used to treat anxiety. The tea can also be added to bath water for skin care, having a calming effect in this case as well. It can also be used in the treatment of rheumatism.
For a peaceful sleep, we can put dried lavender flowers in the pillow. Moreover, lavender has been used against moths since ancient times: dried flowers are placed in wardrobes to keep moths away. Planted among roses, lavender repels leaf aphids from them.
Article published in the book Spice Garden, Casa Publishing House
Levantica
