English Lavender Lavandula angustifolia 'Beechwood Blue'
ABOUT
Lavandula angustifolia 'Beechwood Blue', commonly known as English lavender, is a perennial plant with a distinctive appearance. This variety of lavender is notable for its deep blue-purple flowers, which form dense, fragrant spikes atop long stems that rise above the foliage. The flowers are highly attractive to bees and butterflies, hence the name 'Beechwood Blue'. It blooms profusely, usually in late spring to early summer. The leaves of English lavender are narrow, gray-green, and often have a slightly silvery sheen that makes the plant stand out in the garden even when it is not in bloom. The overall form of 'Beechwood Blue' is an attractive mound of fine, linear foliage that provides a complementary texture to the bold, fragrant flower spikes. English lavender is known for its calming scent and is commonly used in aromatherapy and perfumes. It is often planted in gardens not only for its beauty and aroma but also for its ability to withstand dry conditions once established. The plant's foliage remains evergreen in milder climates, offering year-round visual interest even when the plant is not flowering.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
English Lavender, Common Lavender, True Lavender, Narrow-Leaved Lavender.
Common names
Lavandula angustifolia.
ToxicityTo humans
Lavender is generally not considered toxic to humans. Most parts of Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as lavender, can be ingested in moderation without causing harm, and lavender is often used in culinary and herbal applications. However, consuming lavender in very large quantities could potentially lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or headache due to the presence of compounds like linalool and camphor. It is important to only consume lavender that has been grown for culinary purposes, as ornamental plants may have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals that are not safe for consumption.
To pets
Lavender is generally considered to be safe for pets, and it is not typically listed as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs and cats. However, as with any plant, it is possible that some pets could have an allergic reaction or could experience gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea if they consume large amounts of lavender. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large quantity of lavender and is showing adverse symptoms, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Grey-green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Lavandula angustifolia 'Beechwood Blue', commonly known as English lavender, produces attractive deep blue-purple flowers that can enhance the visual appeal of any garden or landscape.
- Fragrance: The plant is known for its pleasant and relaxing fragrance, which can create a soothing atmosphere in outdoor living spaces.
- Drought Tolerance: English lavender is highly drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of English lavender attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, contributing to the health of the local ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: This variety of lavender requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Culinary Uses: The flowers and leaves of English lavender can be used in cooking to add flavor to a variety of dishes, including desserts and savory meals.
- Deer Resistance: The plant is generally resistant to deer, which can help protect it from browsing animals in areas where deer are a common problem.
- Herb Gardening: English lavender is a popular choice for herb gardens due to its multifunctional uses, from culinary to decorative.
Medical Properties- Anxiolytic Effects: Lavender, including Lavandula angustifolia, is known for its calming and relaxing properties. It is often used in aromatherapy to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Sleep Aid: Due to its sedative properties, lavender is sometimes used to improve sleep quality and help with insomnia or restlessness.
- Antiseptic and Antibacterial: The essential oils of lavender have been traditionally used for their antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which can aid in healing minor cuts and scrapes.
- Anti-inflammatory: Lavender has natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with conditions like arthritis.
- Headache and Migraine Relief: The soothing scent of lavender is sometimes used to help relieve headaches and migraines.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lavender sachets can be placed in drawers to repel moths and keep clothes smelling fresh.
- Dried lavender can be used as a natural alternative to potpourri to scent indoor spaces.
- Lavender infused water can be used for ironing clothes to give them a pleasant fragrance.
- Lavender can be incorporated into homemade soaps for its scent and color.
- The flowers can be used to make a non-toxic paint for creative projects by boiling them to extract the color.
- Lavender flowers can be sprinkled on salads or desserts to add a unique flavor and visual appeal.
- Used as a natural dye for textiles, imparting a gentle lavender hue to fabrics.
- Lavender infused oil can be used as a wood polish that also imparts a calming fragrance to furniture.
- When burned, dried lavender acts as a natural insect repellent, ideal for outdoor gatherings.
- Lavender can be used in homemade cleaning solutions for a natural fragrance and its mild antibacterial properties.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Lavender is used in Feng Shui to bring a sense of calm and purification to an area. It is believed to cleanse the air of negative energy and promote a restful and peaceful environment, which can be beneficial in zones like the bedroom for better sleep or in a meditation space for a harmonized atmosphere.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Lavender is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Calm and Relaxation: Commonly known as Lavender, this plant is often associated with tranquility due to its soothing fragrance. It is frequently used in aromatherapy to promote calmness and stress relief.
- Purity and Cleanliness: Lavender's clean and fresh scent has made it a symbol of purity. It is also used in cleaning products for its antiseptic qualities.
- Devotion and Loyalty: In historical context, Lavender can symbolize loyalty and devotion, as it was often used in love potions and its enduring fragrance was seen as a metaphor for perpetual love.
- Silence and Peacefulness: Some cultures believe that Lavender helps to silence the mind and aid meditation or peaceful contemplation.
- Healing and Restoration: Lavender has long been applied in herbal remedies for its believed healing properties, symbolizing restoration of health and well-being.
- Protection: Folklore often cites Lavender as a plant of protection, used to ward off evil spirits or bad luck.
WaterFor English lavender 'Beechwood Blue', water deeply but infrequently, aiming for about one inch of water every two weeks during the growing season, depending on weather conditions. It's crucial not to overwater, as lavender prefers drier conditions. Ensure that the plant has good drainage to prevent root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering significantly, only providing water if the soil is very dry to the touch.
LightEnglish lavender 'Beechwood Blue' thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. The best spot for planting is in an area where it can receive unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, as this plant loves a sun-drenched location.
TemperatureEnglish lavender 'Beechwood Blue' prefers warm and temperate climates, thriving in temperatures between 60°F and 70°F but can survive winter lows down to 20°F. It is heat tolerant and can withstand high temperatures, making it quite adaptable to varying weather as long as the soil drainage is good.
PruningPrune English lavender 'Beechwood Blue' annually in early spring or after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Remove about one third of the older growth but avoid cutting into the woody part of the stem. The best time for a heavier pruning is late summer, after the last flush has faded.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia 'Beechwood Blue') is well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil with a pH between 6.5 and 8.0. A mix of two parts coarse sand to one part compost or peat moss will create favorable conditions.
RepottingEnglish Lavender should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage to prevent root rot.
Humidity & MistingEnglish Lavender prefers a dry, low humidity environment. The best humidity level is between 40% and 50%, typical of arid Mediterranean climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place English Lavender near a sunny window and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil; water sparingly.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleLavandula angustifolia 'Beechwood Blue', commonly known as English lavender, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which requires well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. The seedlings develop into young plants, establishing a strong root system and starting to produce the characteristic fragrant leaves. As the plant matures, it enters a vegetative growth phase, with stems elongating and leaves expanding to form a bushy structure. Flowering typically occurs in late spring to early summer when tall spikes topped with fragrant blue-purple flowers emerge, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds and the plant may enter a period of dormancy in colder climates, with growth slowing or pausing in winter. With proper care, including pruning to encourage bushy growth and prevent woodiness, English lavender can survive for several years, entering a cyclical pattern of growth, flowering, and dormancy.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Lavender, particularly the Lavandula angustifolia 'Beechwood Blue', is commonly propagated through softwood cuttings. The best time to take these cuttings is in spring, just as new growth begins to appear. To propagate, select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a 3 to 4 inch (approximately 7.6 to 10 centimeters) length just below a node. Remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting should then be inserted into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or coarse sand to provide good drainage. It's important to keep the cutting moist but not waterlogged. Within a few weeks, the cutting should root, after which it can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.
