The Lavenders are the genus Lavandula of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. They are small woody plants. The name is most often applied to those species in the genus that are grown as herbs and for ornament. The most common form of these is the English Lavender, Lavandula angustifolia (formerly L. officinalis).
Lavenders are much grown in gardens. Flower spikes are used for dried flower arrangements. The fragrant, pale purple flowers and flower buds are used in potpourris and in pouches. The plant is also grown commercially for extraction of lavender oil from the flowers. This oil is used as an antiseptic and for aromatherapy.
Kim about lavender
I grow lots of lavender at home. I love the smell of it so much. It’s a very powerful herb. It has well-known calming and soothing properties so it’s great for children. (1)
Do you have favourite flowers?
Lavender – because of their colour and smell. It has such a mediterranean feel. (2)
Interview source
(1) At home with the legendary pop queen Kim Wilde In: OK! (UK), 21 September 2004
(2) What is Kim Wilde doing now? In: Stern (Germany), 1 April 2001