HISTORY AND VARIETIES

Lavender originates from Mediterranean regions. The name comes from the Latin lavare - to wash (which is also the origin of the word ‘laundry’) and is indicative of its use in Roman times as a fragrance and insect repellent. The oil has also been prized for centuries for its antiseptic and healing properties.

English lavender has always been recognised for its quality. In medieval times it was a favoured insect repellent and strewing herb (for scattering on the floor for its scent). Commercial production in England developed in the late 1800’s with cut bunches being sold on city streets and the oil being produced for fragrancing. For many years this supply was supplemented by imported oil from France but the recent increase in production of Kentish Lavender oils has attracted many buyers looking for a reliable, traceable, home-produced source.

Lavender is a ‘xerophyte’ – a plant adapted to thrive in dry conditions – and the oil in its stems and flowers helps to prevent the evaporation of water. There are numerous varieties growing in the wild in Italy, France, Spain and North Africa and many different forms and colours have been bred for ornamental garden use. However, only a few have the high yield and specific oil qualities needed for commercial production.

At Castle Farm we have selected specific varieties for oil and flower drying - Lavandula angustifolia ‘Folgate’ (for cut bunches and lavender oil), L. angustifolia ‘Maillette’ (for lavender oil) and Lavandula x intermedia ‘Grosso’ (for lavandin oil) – and we are working on a breeding programme to continually improve yield and quality.

In season, from May to early August, the farm shop also sells a varying range of attractive garden varieties such as ‘Hidcote’ (a superb hedging plant), ’Cedar Blue’, ‘Alba’, ‘Munstead’ and the ornamental L. stoechas. (These are available only from the shop, not by Mail Order. If particular quantities of a specific variety are required, please ask.)

The Lavandula angustifolia and the hybrid L. x intermedia varieties are all hardy in the UK. They prefer to grow in full sun, in free-draining soil that is neutral to slightly alkaline. Annual pruning, preferably immediately after flowering, is essential to maintain the form of the bushes and to prevent them from going lanky and woody which shortens their life.