French Lavender Vs. English Lavender: What’s The Difference?

Lavender is a beloved herb known for its soothing scent and versatile uses, but did you know that there are different types of lavender?

French lavender and English lavender are two of the most common varieties, and while they may look similar, there are some notable differences between the two. French lavender, also known as Lavandula dentata, is known for its long, narrow leaves and delicate, feathery spikes of flowers.

English lavender, also known as Lavandula angustifolia, has shorter, broader leaves and more compact flower spikes. In this article, we will explore the differences between French and English lavender in terms of their appearance, uses, and growing conditions.

Where Did They Come From?

French lavender, also known as Lavandula dentata, is native to the Mediterranean region, including countries such as France, Spain, and Italy. It has been cultivated for centuries for its fragrant oils and has been used in perfumes, soaps, and other beauty products.

English lavender, also known as Lavandula angustifolia, on the other hand, is native to the mountains of the Mediterranean region, specifically the western Mediterranean, including countries such as Spain, Portugal, Italy and France. It was brought to England by the Romans and has been grown there for centuries, thus the name “English lavender”. It is widely cultivated in England for its essential oils used in perfumes, soaps, and other cosmetics.

What Do They Look Like?

French lavender and English lavender have some similar characteristics, but there are also some notable differences in their appearance.

French lavender has long, narrow leaves that are green in color, and it produces delicate, feathery spikes of flowers. The flowers are typically a deeper shade of purple than English lavender. The plant itself tends to be taller, reaching up to 3 feet in height, and it has a more open and airy growth habit.

English lavender, on the other hand, has shorter, broader leaves that are grayish-green in colour. The flowers are produced in more compact spikes and are typically a lighter shade of purple than French lavender. English lavender tends to be smaller and more compact, reaching a height of 1-2 feet.

In general, French lavender is considered to be more showy and ornamental, while English lavender is valued more for its fragrance and essential oil production.

How Do They Smell?

Both French lavender and English lavender have a distinctive and pleasant fragrance that is characteristic of the lavender plant. However, there are some subtle differences in the smell of the two varieties.

French lavender has a more complex and nuanced scent compared to English lavender, with a combination of floral, herbal and woody notes. The aroma is more camphoraceous, with hints of rosemary and eucalyptus. The scent of French lavender is more intense and less sweet than that of English lavender.

English lavender, on the other hand, has a more traditional lavender scent that is sweet, floral, and herbaceous. The aroma is more refreshing and calming, and it’s considered less pungent than French lavender.

It is worth noting that the scent of lavender can vary based on the growing conditions and the time of year it’s harvested. The essential oil content, which is responsible for the aroma, is higher when the plant is in full bloom, which occurs in summer.

What Are Lavender And What Are Its Benefits

1. Lavender is a perennial herb that is part of the mint family. It is known for its beautiful purple flowers and its unique, soothing scent.
2. Lavender has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, and headaches.
3. The essential oil of lavender is used in many natural beauty products and aromatherapy. The oil is believed to have a calming effect on the body and mind, and it is often used as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress.
4. Inhaling the scent of lavender has been shown to reduce heart rate and blood pressure, promoting a sense of relaxation and calm.
5. Lavender oil can be applied topically to soothe minor burns, cuts, and insect bites. It also can be used to treat acne, eczema, and other skin conditions.
6. Lavender is also used to promote sleep and alleviate insomnia. Its calming properties can help to relax the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep.
7. In addition, lavender is also a natural insect repellent, and it can be used to keep pests like mosquitoes and moths at bay.
8. Culinary uses of lavender include baking, tea, jams, jellies and marinades.
9. Overall, lavender is a versatile herb that can be used to promote relaxation, improve sleep, and soothe skin conditions, among many other benefits.

French Lavender Vs. English Lavender: What Is The Difference?

French lavender (Lavandula dentata) and English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) are two common varieties of lavender, both known for their fragrant flowers and soothing scent. However, there are some notable differences between the two.

Appearance

French lavender has long, narrow leaves and delicate, feathery spikes of flowers. The flowers are typically a deeper shade of purple than English lavender. The plant itself tends to be taller, reaching up to 3 feet in height, and it has a more open and airy growth habit. English lavender, on the other hand, has shorter, broader leaves and more compact flower spikes. English lavender is typically smaller and more compact, reaching a height of 1-2 feet.

Scent

French lavender has a more complex and nuanced scent compared to English lavender, with a combination of floral, herbal and woody notes. English lavender has a more traditional lavender scent that is sweet, floral, and herbaceous.

Growing conditions

French lavender is more tolerant of heat and drought and is best grown in full sun, whereas English lavender prefers cooler temperatures and more moisture.

Uses

French lavender is considered to be more showy and ornamental, while English lavender is valued more for its fragrance and essential oil production. French lavender is used for perfumes, soaps, and other beauty products. English lavender essential oil is used in perfumes, soaps, and other cosmetics, and it is also used as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress.

In summary, French and English lavender have different appearances, scents, growing conditions and uses, but both are known for their fragrant flowers and soothing scent.

What Do French And English Lavender Have In Common?

French lavender (Lavandula dentata) and English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) are two different varieties of lavender, but they do have some similarities.

1. Both varieties are part of the mint family and are known for their fragrant flowers and soothing scent.
2. Both types of lavender are used in perfumery and other beauty products such as soaps, lotions, and candles.
3. Both French and English lavender can be used for aromatherapy to promote relaxation and alleviate stress.
4. Both varieties of lavender have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and headaches.
5. Both French and English lavender can be used as a natural insect repellent.
6. Both types of lavender have culinary uses and are used in baking, tea, jams, jellies and marinades.
7. Both varieties of lavender can be used to soothe minor burns, cuts, and insect bites and can be used in skincare products to treat acne, eczema, and other skin conditions.
8. Both French and English lavender can be grown at home as ornamental or medicinal plants or for commercial use.

In summary, French and English lavender has many similarities in terms of their uses, benefits and cultivation. They are both valued for their fragrant flowers and soothing scent and have various uses in traditional medicine, perfumery, and other beauty products, as well as in cooking and as a natural insect repellent.

Does One Have More Health Benefits?

Both French lavender (Lavandula dentata) and English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their medicinal properties, but there is some variation in the specific health benefits associated with each variety.

English lavender (L. Angustifolia) is considered to have a higher content of the essential oil linalool, which is responsible for its calming and soothing properties, making it more commonly used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and alleviate stress. It is also used to promote sleep and alleviate insomnia.

French lavender (L. dentata) is considered to have a higher content of the essential oil camphor, which is responsible for its refreshing and invigorating properties, making it useful for physical and mental fatigue.

Both French and English lavender have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and headaches, and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

It’s worth noting that the specific benefits of lavender can also vary based on the growing conditions, the part of the plant used, and the method of preparation. While both French and English lavender has similar benefits, they have different chemical profiles and, thus, different therapeutic properties as well.

It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medicinal herb as a treatment, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medication.

Which Lavender Is Easiest To Grow?

Both French lavender (Lavandula dentata) and English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) are relatively easy to grow, but they have different requirements for optimal growth.

English lavender (L. Angustifolia) prefers cooler temperatures and more moisture and should be grown in well-drained soil in full sun. It is also a bit more sensitive to frost, so it’s best to plant it in a sheltered location. English lavender is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.

French lavender (L. dentata) is more tolerant of heat and drought and is best grown in full sun. It prefers well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established. French lavender is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.

In terms of maintenance, both French and English lavender require regular watering, especially during dry periods. They also benefit from a light trim after blooming to promote business and a second flush of blooms.

In general, English lavender may require more care and attention compared to French lavender, especially in terms of soil moisture and protection from frost. French lavender is considered more tolerant of heat and drought, and it is more suitable for dry and hot climates, making it easier to grow.

It’s worth noting that both French and English lavender can be grown in containers, making them suitable for small gardens, patios, and balconies.

Which Lavender Blooms The Longest?

Both French lavender (Lavandula dentata) and English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) produce beautiful, fragrant blooms, but they have different blooming seasons.

English lavender (L. Angustifolia) typically blooms in late spring to early summer, with a peak bloom period of 4-6 weeks. The blooms are usually more compact, and the plant may produce a second flush of blooms in the fall.

French lavender (L. dentata) blooms a bit later, typically in late June to early July, with a peak bloom period of 6-8 weeks. The blooms are feathery, and the plant may produce a second flush of blooms in late summer.

In general, French lavender blooms for a longer period than English lavender. French lavender’s blooming period is slightly longer and blooms a bit later in the season.

It’s worth noting that the blooming period can vary based on the growing conditions, such as temperature, sunlight and water, and can be affected by factors such as pests and disease.

When is the Best Time to Plant Lavender?

The best time to plant lavender depends on the specific variety and the climate where you live. In general, it is best to plant lavender when the soil is warm, and the weather is mild.

For spring planting: The ideal time for planting lavender in the spring is after the last frost date in your area. This typically falls between late April and early May, depending on your location. Spring is the ideal time to plant lavender if you live in a cooler climate, as the plant will have enough time to establish itself before the hot summer weather arrives.

For fall planting: In warmer climates, it’s best to plant lavender in the fall, between late September and early November. This allows the plant to establish itself before the hot summer weather arrives. Fall planting also gives the plant more time to develop a strong root system before the hot summer weather arrives.

It’s worth noting that when planting lavender, make sure the soil is well-drained and that the site you choose gets plenty of sun. Lavender prefers full sun and dry, well-drained soils.

Also, it’s important to keep in mind that lavender is sensitive to wet soil, so do not plant it in low-lying areas or in clay soils that retain water. If the soil is heavy clay, it’s better to amend it with sand and grit to improve drainage before planting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, French lavender (Lavandula dentata) and English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) are two different varieties of lavender, each with their own unique characteristics, such as appearance, scent, growing conditions and uses.

French lavender is more tolerant of heat and drought and is considered to be more showy and ornamental, while English lavender is valued more for its fragrance and essential oil production.

Both French and English lavender are easy to grow, but they have different requirements for optimal growth. The best time to plant lavender depends on the specific variety and the climate where you live.

The best time to trim lavender is after it has finished blooming, and it should be trimmed back to where the new growth is emerging from the base of the plant. Regular trimming and deadheading will encourage new growth, keep the plant healthy and promote bushiness.