Lavandula ( Lavender )

Although lavender often brings to mind an English cottage garden, this sweetly scented flower originated in the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands, Arabia and India, and was not introduced to English gardens until the 1500s. Lavender's name is derived from the Latin word lavo, meaning "to wash," and reflects the plant oil's common use in soaps, perfumes and other toiletries. A member of the Labiatae family, some 20 lavender species are known. They take the form of small shrubs, subshrubs and herbaceous perennials.

May through September Up to 10 days.

Remove leaves and flowers below the waterline. Popular flower to dry. Simply hang upside down in a dark, cool and dry place. Dried lavender retains its fragrance.

Lavender is a fragrant addition to summery arrangements. Its linear form makes it useful for establishing strong lines in floral designs, while its delicate flowers also serve well as filler.