La Lavandula o Lavender is a genus of dicotyledonous spermatophyte plants belonging to the family Lamiaceae and its name derives from Latin, particularly from the gerund "washed". Among the best known and most loved flowers, lavender undoubtedly occupies a prominent place in people's preference.
Known for its beautiful colors ranging from purple to blueAs well as the unmistakable fragrance it releases, this plant has always been part of human history, both as an ornamental species and as a natural find for the most varied uses within the home.
Lavender characteristics
Lavender is a evergreen herbaceous plant and bushy habitIt has medium-sized stems, strong and woody roots. Its leaves are in a symmetrical position with respect to the extension of its stem, they open during the inflorescence, from bracts opposite to the growth spiral. Its flowers are small and show colors from purple to blue that stand out for their pleasant aroma.
Flowering
Because it is a perennial genus, easily stays green for most of the year, even during the winter, time of harsh climatic conditions. Of course! as long as it does not exceed the tolerable low temperatures for the plant, since they can cause irreversible damage to its roots.
Now its flowering is typical of the summer. Depending on the growing region, it is possible to observe the appearance of blue and purple inflorescences from the month of May until the end of September. Unmistakable for its characteristic fragrance, the plant offers a charming and attractive flowering, particularly in the great expanses of the Mediterranean, where there are wide spaces for its cultivation.
As the plant tends to spread quickly, it is important to perform frequent transplants and pruning. The best time of year to carry out these works is autumn, in mid-September or at the end of its flowering. For it, you must cut the stem approximately two centimeters from the previous inflorescence, using suitable tools and making diagonal cuts. If the stem of the plant is very woody, then you should descend a little more against the leaves, to ensure the renewal of the plant in the following season.
Farming
Prefers the pleasant Mediterranean climate and exposure to sun, so it can be seen growing wild on the warm coasts of southern France and Italy. In relation to the soil, it must have good drainage since its roots do not tolerate excess moisture. However, they do not need much fertilization, without denying that sometimes the use of organic fertilizers can be useful for their growth.
As for its irrigation, it will depend on the time of year. During spring and autumn, rains may be sufficient; while during the summer if it is necessary to apply irrigation frequently, taking into account the aridity of the soil. Preferable to apply irrigations in the mornings and afternoons moderately to avoid possible stagnation of water.
Lavender it can be grown in pots, for this the space where it is going to be planted must first be properly prepared; If you prefer to use a vase, then it is important that you prepare a gravel bottom, expanded clay balls that ensure a good flow of water. Now, if you prefer to plant your lavender in the garden, then using organic fertilizers can help.
Habitually it is planted by seeds or by cuttings, although you can also transplant their seedlings. The cultivation takes place in autumn, during which time you spread its seeds in the ground and then cover them with a thin layer of soil. As soon as you notice that the shoots appear, eliminate the specimens that you notice weak and reorganize the entire crop.
Uses
It is a genre used for ornamental purposes, among which the creation of perennial gardens, gardens that are not affected by diseases or pests. Also used in the production of soaps and detergents to which it adds its pleasant and unmistakable aroma; as well as the production of countless natural products for the home.
The oldest cultures already had knowledge of its medicinal properties and use for the production of cosmetics for beauty. For this reason, it is currently also used as indispensable ingredient in the preparation of creams and lotions.