ZZZ DISCONTINUED Lavender Plant - Lavender Alba

Also known as True Lavender or English Lavender, Lavandula angustifolia (formerly known as officinalis, a reflection of its medicinal properties).

Angustifolia (from it's official Botanical name) means 'narrow-leaved', reminding us that these plants will happily thrive in hot, dry conditions, all the better to encourage the development of the essential oils that give the leaves and flowers their distinctive, much-loved fragrance. Native to the Mediterranean.

According to the herbalist Nicholas Culpepper, 'a decoction made with the flowers of Lavender, Horehound, Fennel, Asparagus root and a little Cinnamon is very profitably used to help the falling-sickness (epilepsy) and the giddiness or turning of the brain.'

Lavandula angustifolia 'Alba' is a robust evergreen shrub with silver-grey foliage and long flower spikes, pure white and very fragrant.

Recommended by the RHS to be an excellent attractant and nectar source for bees and other beneficial insects.

• Hardy perennial.
• Reaches a height of 3 feet (100 cm).
• Bushy habit.
• Likes full sun and free-draining soil.
• Drought tolerant.
• Will grow happily in a container in a sunny spot.
• Does not tolerate waterlogging.
• Makes good cut flower
• Cut back when flowering is over.
• Attractive to bees and butterflies.

• Culinary uses
• Dried lavender flowers can be used in salads and dressings.
• Dried flowers can be used to make lavender ice cream.
• Nectar makes high-quality honey.
• Lavender flowers go well with chocolate.
• Flowers sometimes blended with black, green or herbal teas.

• Medicinal Uses
• Can soothe headaches.
• Can calm nerves and act as a relaxant. Can also relieve depression.
• Eases flatulence, fainting, dizziness or halitosis.
• Lavender oil has antiseptic and antiflammatory properties.
• Has antifungal properties.
• Can be used as a decongestant.
• Is a mild sedative and pain killer.
• Can ease insect bites and stings.
• Can minimise scarring and help heal wounds.
• Is great for tired or tense muscles, sprains or rheumatism.

• Other Uses
• Dried flower arrangements.
• Useful as an ingredient in pot-pourri.
• Lavender sachets.
• Ideal for wedding confetti.

Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using.