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French lavender

plant
Also known as: Lavandula stoechas

Quick Summary

French lavender, or Lavandula stoechas, is a shrubby plant native to southwestern Europe. It is a species within the lavender genus (Lavandula), which belongs to the mint family. Lavenders are known for their fragrant leaves and attractive flowers, and they are widely cultivated for their essential oils used in perfumes and cosmetics. The ancient Romans used lavender in their baths, and it can also be used to flavor beverages and sweets. French lavender is one of the most commonly cultivated species, alongside English lavender and woolly lavender. These plants are small evergreen shrubs with gray-green leaves and purple flowers arranged on spikes.12

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