Spike lavender

Spike Lavender (Lavandula latifolia), also known as Portuguese lavender or broadleaved lavender, is a species of lavender native to the western Mediterranean region, primarily in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy. It is a strongly aromatic shrub, and its oil is used in aromatherapy and perfumery.

Description

Spike lavender is a robust, aromatic shrub that grows up to 1 meter tall. The leaves are evergreen, 2–6 cm long, and broad lanceolate. The flowers are pink to purple, produced on spikes 2–3 cm long at the top of slender, leafless stems 10–30 cm long.

Cultivation

Spike lavender is cultivated for its oil, which differs in scent from other lavender oils due to its high levels of camphor. It prefers sunny, dry, well-drained soils and is drought-tolerant once established. It is hardy to zone 8 and is not frost tender.

Uses

The essential oil of spike lavender is used in aromatherapy and perfumery. It is also used in soaps, lotions, and sachets. The plant is also used in landscaping, particularly in rock gardens and as a hedge.

See also

• Lavandula angustifolia
• Lavandula stoechas
• Lavandula x intermedia

External links

• Floridata: Lavandula latifolia
• Plants For A Future: Lavandula latifolia