Lavandula angustifolia 'Twickel Purple'

English lavender has been a mainstay of herb gardens for many years. Despite its common name, it is not in fact native to England, but comes primarily from the Mediterranean region. It was reportedly named English lavender because of its ability to grow well in the English climate. This ìtrue lavenderî is commercially planted for harvesting its oils for use in perfumes. Lavender flowers and foliage are also popular additions to sachets and potpourris. English lavender varieties are more often used for culinary purposes than other types of lavender. This is a semi-woody plant that typically g... more »

English lavender has been a mainstay of herb gardens for many years. Despite its common name, it is not in fact native to England, but comes primarily from the Mediterranean region. It was reportedly named English lavender because of its ability to grow well in the English climate. This ìtrue lavenderî is commercially planted for harvesting its oils for use in perfumes. Lavender flowers and foliage are also popular additions to sachets and potpourris. English lavender varieties are more often used for culinary purposes than other types of lavender. This is a semi-woody plant that typically grows to 1.5-3. Narrow, gray-green leaves (to 2 1/2î long) on square stems. Flowers appear in terminal spikes in late spring to early summer. Both foliage and flowers are highly aromatic. Leaves are evergreen in warm winter climates. ëTwickel Purple is a compact form noted for dense purple flowers on spikes appearing in fan-like clusters. Its winter leaves are sometimes flushed with purple. This cultivar reportedly got its name from Twickel castle in the Netherlands. (less)