Lavender Lavandula × intermedia Heavenly Scent = 'Dowphscent' (Heavenly Series)
ABOUT
Lavandula × intermedia Heavenly Scent, commonly known as lavender, is a hybrid plant known for its aromatic qualities and aesthetic appeal. It displays a grayish-green foliage that consists of narrow leaves which set a soft, contrasting backdrop to its attractive blooms. The flowers are the most distinctive feature of this plant, with extended spikes topped by small, densely-packed purple blossoms that exude a strong, soothing fragrance. The plant tends to have a bushy, rounded habit, creating a mound of color and scent. The lavender's blooms are highly attractive to bees and butterflies, making it not only a favorite among gardeners but also beneficial for pollinators.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Lavandin, Hybrid Lavender
Common names
Lavandula × intermedia 'Dowphscent'
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Lavandula × intermedia Heavenly Scent 'Dowphscent' is Lavender. Typically, lavender is not considered toxic to humans. It is widely used in aromatherapy, culinary applications, and cosmetics due to its pleasant fragrance and potential health benefits. However, it is always possible that some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation when handling the plant, its essential oils, or products derived from lavender. Ingesting large quantities of lavender oil may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and headaches, but ingesting the plant in normal culinary amounts is generally regarded as safe for most people.
To pets
Lavender is recognized for its calming effects and fragrant smell, and it is generally not toxic to pets. Mild gastrointestinal upset could possibly occur if a pet ingests a large amount of lavender. However, lavender oil, which is more concentrated, should be used with caution as it can be harmful in larger doses. Symptoms of lavender oil poisoning in pets could include vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, central nervous system depression. It is always wise to keep essential oils out of reach of pets, and to consult a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has ingested a harmful substance.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Gray-green
Flower color
Purple
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Lavender adds a beautiful burst of purple to gardens and landscapes with its attractive blooms and foliage.
- Fragrance: The plant is well-known for its pleasant and calming scent, which enhances the sensory experience of any garden or indoor space.
- Attracts Pollinators: It draws beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, supporting pollination and biodiversity.
- Drought Tolerance: The plant is relatively drought-resistant once established, making it ideal for low-water gardens.
- Easy to Grow: Lavender is generally easy to cultivate and maintain, suitable for gardeners at all levels of experience.
- Culinary Use: Some lavender varieties can be used in cooking and provide a unique flavor to various dishes.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care, with occasional pruning and limited need for fertilization or pest control.
Medical Properties- Relaxation and Stress Relief: Lavender is widely recognized for its calming properties, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Sleep Improvement: The soothing scent of lavender is commonly used to improve sleep quality and alleviate insomnia.
- Anti-inflammatory: Lavender has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Antiseptic and Antibacterial: Lavender oil is often used for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which can help prevent infection and promote wound healing.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Adding to compost: Lavender can add a pleasant scent to compost piles and might help deter pests because of its strong fragrance.
- Freshen laundry: Placing dried lavender in cloth bags and adding them to the dryer can infuse clothes with a fresh, clean scent.
- Lavender-stuffed toys: Crafting small toys or sleep aids for children, filled with dried lavender, can create a calming bedtime companion.
- Moth repellent: Dried lavender can be used in wardrobes and drawers to repel moths and protect clothing.
- Infused vinegar: Lavender-infused vinegar can be used as a natural cleaner or fabric softener, leaving behind a subtle fragrance.
- Natural confetti: Dried lavender buds can be used as a biodegradable alternative to traditional paper confetti at celebrations, such as weddings.
- Bookmarks: Incorporating dried lavender in homemade paper bookmarks to offer a soothing aroma while reading.
- Lavender wreaths and garlands: Dried lavender can be crafted into decorative wreaths and garlands for a natural home decoration that also smells great.
- Flavoring sugar: Infusing sugar with dried lavender creates a uniquely flavored sweetener for teas, baking, or cocktails.
- Potpourri: Mixed with other dried flowers and spices, lavender can be part of a fragrant potpourri display for home scenting.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiLavender can be used in Feng Shui to promote relaxation, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. Place it in the living room or bedroom to create a peaceful atmosphere and enhance sleep quality. Its aroma is believed to cleanse the space of negative energy, support healing, and invite positive vibrations.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityLavender is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Calmness: Lavender is often associated with tranquility and relaxation, often used in aromatherapy to soothe the mind.
- Purification: Historically, lavender has been used for its cleansing and antiseptic properties, symbolizing the purification of body and spirit.
- Devotion: Lavender can signify devotion or undying love, making it a common choice in wedding bouquets and gifts.
- Silence: In some cultures, lavender is a symbol of silence, perhaps because of its use in fostering peaceful environments.
- Protection: It was believed to ward off evil spirits in some traditions, and bundles were hung in homes for protection.
- Healing: As a plant known for its medicinal qualities, lavender also symbolizes healing and the restoration of health.
- Longevity: The hardy nature of the lavender plant can be emblematic of longevity and enduring strength.
WaterFor the 'Heavenly Scent' Lavender, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically no more than once a week, to avoid overwatering. Gradually pour water over the soil until it begins to run out of the bottom of the pot, ensuring deep watering without waterlogging the plant. It is hard to specify the exact amount as it can vary based on pot size and environmental conditions, but as a rough guide, use approximately half a gallon every two weeks during active growth periods, adjusting based on weather and soil drainage.
Light'Heavenly Scent' Lavender thrives in full sun exposure with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this plant is in an area where it can receive unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day. Avoid too much shade as it can diminish bloom quality and plant vigor.
Temperature'Heavenly Scent' Lavender prefers temperatures between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth but can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They do not do well if the temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, so protection from harsh winter conditions is important for plant survival.
PruningPrune 'Heavenly Scent' Lavender after flowering to shape the plant and promote new growth, typically once a year in early to mid-spring. Cut back about one third of the total height of the plant, ensuring not to cut into the woody base as it may not regrow from old wood. Pruning helps to maintain a compact form and encourages a flush of new flowers in the season to come.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLavender (Lavandula × intermedia 'Dowphscent') thrives best in well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil with a pH between 6.7 and 7.3. A mixture of two parts coarse sand, one part perlite, and one part compost is ideal for this plant.
RepottingLavender should be repotted every two to three years or when it outgrows its current container, ensuring improved growth and health.
Humidity & MistingLavender prefers dry conditions and does well in low to moderate humidity levels. It is important to avoid high humidity environments to prevent issues such as fungus and root rot.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place lavender near a sunny window, water sparingly, ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil; protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleLavandula × intermedia Heavenly Scent, commonly known as lavender, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically in spring after the danger of frost has passed. The seedling stage follows, where the plant develops its initial roots and leaves. As it enters the vegetative stage, the lavender grows rapidly, forming a bushy structure and more mature leaves. In the reproductive stage, usually in late spring to early summer, the plant produces spikes topped with fragrant purple flowers that attract pollinators and can be harvested for various uses. After pollination, seeds form and are dispersed, and the plant may enter a period of dormancy in the winter, conserving energy. With the return of warmer weather, the plant resumes growth, completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Lavender, especially cultivars like Lavandula × intermedia Heavenly Scent, is most commonly propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The ideal time for taking cuttings is during late summer. This method involves selecting a healthy piece of the plant that is not too old or too young, typically a stem that has started to mature but has not yet become hard and woody. A segment of about 2 to 4 inches long (5 to 10 centimeters) should be cut just below a node. The lower leaves are removed, and the base of the cutting can be dipped in a rooting hormone to improve the success rate. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that one or more nodes are buried where roots can develop. Adequate moisture must be maintained, but not so much as to cause the cutting to rot. With proper care, the cutting will root and can eventually be transplanted to its permanent location.
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