Is Lavandin, Lavender?

“Is Lavandin the same as Lavender?” is a question that people frequently ask. You must admit that it is pretty fascinating. Believe it or not, when people mention lavender, the majority of us only consider the common lavender we are familiar with. Does it have anything to do with lavender? 

We are all aware that those who enjoy calming and relaxing scents may find the true scent of lavender to be the most wonderful addition to their aromatherapy routine. The secret is right here! 

What exactly is lavandin? Lavandin is actually a variety of lavender from the genus Lavandula X Intermedia, also called Lavandula Hybrida. The X denotes that this species of lavender is a hybrid created through the cross-breeding of Spike Lavender (Lavandula Latifolia) and English Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia).

Comparatively, lavender is known to grow higher in the mountains, while lavandin grows lower. Their shapes show the difference. The flower heads of lavandin have a spike-like shape, while the Lavandula Angustifolia and Lavandula Latifolia species give it both sweet and undertoned scents.

Lavandin and lavender can both appear quite similar from a distance, but one thing that sets them apart is that lavandin grows much larger and taller—up to 18 inches—and has fuller blossoms. Additionally, it has buds that serve as supports for the flower petals. While the calyces of lavender are slightly tinted green, those of lavandin are a sophisticated lavender color.

Do you realize that some lavender products labeled as “lavender” are not really coming from the plant at all? Contrary to lavender, lavandin contains natural camphor, which makes it excellent as a repellent as well as providing a stronger and longer-lasting scent throughout the house.

Lavandin, on the other hand, has a scent that is slightly stronger and more pungent, resembling medicine, due to the much higher percentage of 6% to 10% camphor it contains.  Also, due to its higher camphor content, lavandin can actually aggravate burns. Lavandin does, however, have one benefit that lavender does not share: the ability to aid in the healing of burns.

English lavender has a scent that is more subdued, sweet, and floral when it contains 0% to 6% camphor. Since lavandin contains more camphor than English Lavender, it can freshen and deodorize spaces more effectively.

In comparison to English lavender, they can produce up to three times as much essential oil from lavandin per kilogram of plant material. This is the main justification for why it is frequently utilized in less expensive lavender goods like commercial fragrances, home soaps, and detergents.  However, this does not prove that lavandin oil is of poor quality. There are numerous uses for various oils.

Both lavender and lavandin are wonderful for their scents, decorations, and powerful essential oils. However, lavandin is best used for its strong scent and long stems, while lavender is best for culinary purposes and aromatherapy.

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