Lavandula stoechas , usually cognise as French lavender , and Lavandula angustifolia , commonly known as English lavender , may both fall under the lilac category , but they have distinct characteristics that set up them apart .
1 . categorization : French lavender is scientifically sort out as Lavandula stoechas , while English lavender is classified as Lavandula angustifolia . This difference of opinion in classification foreground their genic variation and alone trait .
2 . Appearance : One noticeable divergence between the two is their strong-arm appearance . French lavender has a typical “ pine cone ” or “ rabbit ear ” shape , with elongated bract that resemble petals in vibrant colors such as majestic , pink , or ashen . On the other hand , English lavender has a more traditional lavender appearance , with compact clusters of small , tubular flowers in shades of purple , blue , or pinkish .
3 . Fragrance : Another distinguishing factor is their scent . English lavender is renowned for its strong , odoriferous aroma with hints of camphor and floral note . It is often used in perfumes , crucial oils , and culinary applications . French lavender , however , has a odour that is slightly more medicative and less sweet equate to English lavender . Its scent is often described as herbaceous and slightly camphor - like .
4 . Hardiness : In terms of hardiness , English lavender is loosely more dusty - hardy compared to French lavender . English lavender can withstand colder temperatures and is often found in region with cooler climates . French lavender , on the other hand , prefer warm climate and may struggle in cold regions .
5 . Growth Habit : French lavender incline to have a more compact and shaggy-haired growth habit , growing up to 3 pes in tiptop . Its foliation is gray - light-green and can be slightly hairy . English lavender , on the other hired hand , raise in a more good fashion , gain heights of around 2 to 3 feet . Its foliage is typically a silvery - gray colour and less hirsute compared to French lavender .
6 . Growing condition : French lavender thrives in full Lord’s Day and well - draining soil , while English lavender is also sunshine - loving but can endure a panoptic reach of filth conditions . Both variety show require good air circulation to prevent disease and prefer ground with a slightly alkaline pH.
7 . Uses : The usance of these two lilac-colored mixed bag also take issue . English lavender is usually used for culinary purposes , such as adding flavor to desserts , teas , and mouth-watering dishes . It is also highly valued for its remedial dimension in aromatherapy and herbal remedy . French lavender , on the other manus , is often used as an cosmetic plant in gardens , due to its spectacular floral presentation and unparalleled bract shape .
While French lavender ( Lavandula stoechas ) and English lavender ( Lavandula angustifolia ) belong to to the same lavender syndicate , their compartmentalisation , appearances , fragrances , hardiness , maturation habits , and uses differ . French lavender features distinct pine cone - shaped flower , a somewhat medicinal fragrance , and prefer warmer climate , while English lavender has a traditional lavender show , a sweeter aroma , and is more inhuman - hardy . understand these difference of opinion can help gardeners and lilac enthusiasts choose the variety that best fit their needs and growing conditions .
Caroline Bates
