Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia (pronunciation: luh-VAN-dyoo-luh an-gus-tee-FOH-lee-uh), also known as English lavender, is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae, native to the Mediterranean.
Etymology
The genus name Lavandula is derived from the Latin lavare, meaning "to wash", referring to the use of infusions of the plants. The specific epithet angustifolia is Latin for "narrow leaf".
Description
Lavandula angustifolia is a strongly aromatic shrub growing as high as 1 to 2 metres tall. The leaves are evergreen, 2–6 centimetres long, and 4–6 millimetres broad. The flowers are pinkish-purple (lavender-coloured), produced on spikes 2–8 cm long at the top of slender, leafless stems 10–30 cm long.
Uses
The plant is cultivated extensively for its essential oils, used in perfumery and aromatherapy. It is also used as a culinary herb, both in the kitchen and in herbal teas.
Related Terms
- Lamiaceae: The mint family, of which Lavandula angustifolia is a member.
- Essential oil: A concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile aroma compounds from plants. Lavandula angustifolia is prized for its essential oil.
- Aromatherapy: A holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being. Lavandula angustifolia is often used in aromatherapy.
- Perfumery: The art of making perfumes. Lavandula angustifolia is a common ingredient in perfumes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Lavandula angustifolia
- Wikipedia's article - Lavandula angustifolia
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